               God's Garden
      
        God looked around His garden
          and found an empty place.
     He then looked down upon the earth
          and saw your tired face.
         He put His arms around you
          and lifted you to rest.
       God's garden must be beautiful;
          He always takes the best.
      He saw the road was getting rough,
     and the hills were hard to climb, so
         He closed your weary eyelids
       and whispered, "Peace be thine."
       It broke our hearts to lose you,
           but you didn't go alone,
        for parts of us went with you
              the day God called
                   you home.

Your brother and I moved to the valley in 1994

I had already met you.....
But was eager to learn more

I told you about the house for sale
Just two doors down

You and Miguel bought it
I was the happiest sister in law in town

You were always there
 to help us with the kids......
And now they are all grown

I thank you for all your help
As we couldn't have done it alone

I think about your family 
every single day
Peace and closure for them all, I do pray

I am so sad that your life on earth came to such an abrupt end........

Until we meet again.......
My dear sister in law and friend

My sister was so beautiful
Kathy was her name

She always had the longest hair
It was her claim to fame

I was only 9 years old
When she married and moved away
But I treasured my sister Kathy every single day

Our lives were always busy
And we tried to stay in touch

Although we lived in the same town
We couldn't find the time to get together much

But when we got together
Laughter filled the air
For my dear sister Kathy indeed was very rare

When I learned that she had cancer
I didn't know what to do

It was so sudden
I didn't have a clue

There are a lot of things I would have done differently
If I had only known
But I have peace in the fact that you are not alone

You showed so much grace and dignity until the bitter end

I miss you my dear sister Kathy

Until we meet again

My beautiful aunt your were so sweet and loving. I remeber as a child watching you do you mak e up so beautifully, every strand of hair always in place. Your a beautiful soul and i will miss and think of you always. You raised a beautiful family. And left wonderful memories for everyone....

In Memory of My Sister Kathy

If I only had five minutes the day you passed away, I would have had time to tell you all the things I had to say.

I never got to tell you how much you mean to me, or that you were the best Sis, better than a Sis could be.

The last time I talked to you I wish I had known. I would have said I Love You, and kept you on the phone.

If I only had five minutes the morning you passed away, I'd give you one last hug so tight and see your great big smile. I'd tell you that I don't think I could live without you even for awhile.

I'd kiss your cheek and take your hand, and tell you it's okay to go. And tell you that I'll miss you more than you'll ever know.

But you were gone so quickly, before we even knew it, you were standing at Heavens Gate.

It's time to get your wings, and leave this life behind you, To enjoy all of heavens beautiful things.

So wait for me in heaven Sis,
Don't let me come alone. The day the Angels come for me,  Please be there to bring me home.

Love You So Much Sis.

Hello Mother...
(...to which you would naturally respond "Hello Daughter.")

I miss you. 

It's been a little over one month since you've gone. I think of you all the time and feel your absence most when I'm alone like watching TV, driving, or shopping; all things we used to do together.   

Listening to oldies and a song comes on telling me that you're near like the one that came on as I was getting ready for your funeral, "Someday We'll Be Together," letting me know that I'll be with you again someday,  or listening to "Hold On! I'm Coming!" which made me chuckle cause I pictured you saying that as you entered the gates of Heaven.  

I miss you.

I think of times spent with you throughout my life like when you used to brush my hair into perfect pigtails, to when you tried dropping me off at the bus stop for the first time and I didn't want to leave you so I cried and ran after you, or when I was a teenager and you let me put makeup on you and do your hair... Waking up on Saturday mornings and going to lay in bed with you to watch TV...Or taking long bike rides together out in the fields when we lived out in the country... Or the time when I was trying to rollerblade outside while you were watching from the kitchen window - I fell flat on my butt but I could hear you laughing yours off! 

It wasn't until my 20s that I realized you were much more than simply my mother; you were the older sister I never had, my best friend. 

You were so much a part of my life and as my role model, were influential in shaping me to be the person I am. We're similar in so many ways, especially in some of our mannerisms, demeanor or sarcastic sense of humor.

You were hard working, loving, caring, giving and self-sacrificing, full of grace, class, strength, wisdom and wit. True beauty inside and out. You're someone I aspire to be.

Pope Francis recently said,"Mothers are indispensable... showing the world what it means to generously give oneself for others, to respect life and to display tenderness and moral strength even in times of trouble." 

This last year has been one of the hardest in my life - my time of trouble - as I battled breast cancer, but as my indispensable mother, you were by my side through it all going with me to my surgeries, all my appointments, scans, and chemotherapy treatments. You were my rock, my strength. Words cannot express my appreciation and gratitude to have you there for me, to take care of me when I needed it most.  

When you were diagnosed and we knew our time with you was limited, it wasn't even a question. I knew it was our time to take care of and be there for you just as you had always been for us, to be your rock and strength.

My life dimmed the day you left...now I'm learning to live a new normal without your physical presence. 

I recently watched a friend of mine interact and joke with her mother, and bond like we did. It made me realize we wouldn't be able to do little things like that anymore and it made me miss you.

I often thought of all the places I wanted to take you, and trips to Italy, New York or even Alaska that we dreamt of taking together...things I wanted to do with you that now I will hopefully get to do in your memory and know you'll be there with me, not only in spirit but that part of you that will forever live within me. 

I know my life will go on because it must but it will never be as it was...

I miss you. 

I will love you forever and always. 

May you rest in peace.

Till we meet again, your daughter and best friend...

Olivia

"When you die, it does not mean that you lose to cancer. You beat cancer by how you live, why you live, and in the manner in which you live." - Stuart Scott

Dear Grandma,
I am not sure what to say,
The hurting hasn't got any better.
You were unfairly taken away,
So I know you won't get this letter.
Our family has grown closer,
Your house is full of love and support.
I know you're watching over,
But your life just fell to short.
You're no longer in pain, which I'm grateful for.
I just wish God would explain,
Why you couldn't be here anymore. 
You've taught me so much,
How to love and how to bake,
My life you've forever touched,
But my heart will forever ache.

Dear Kathy,
I only got to know you for a short time, but it's been said that it doesn't matter how long you've known a person, but how you spend that time together. I know that when you spoke, it was quiet but with a purpose (I see where Olivia gets that from). Sometimes you didn't have to say anything at all, and the silence spoke volumes. When you had spare time, you spent every moment you could with family... whether it was something they needed help with, or just hanging out. I'd swear at times, you and Olivia were joined at the hip. I never saw a mother and daughter so close. I'll miss our conversations as well. Some that stood out were about Olivia, or living in Cantua, even my uncle popped up one of them! There's not a day that goes by that you won't be missed, Kathy... I guess God needed a special angel and didn't prepare us for it. But your family is strong. You raised them to be a strong and loving family... and together, they'll get through this tough time. I'm sure you were welcomed into heaven by family, and with love. Keep a close eye on your family from time to time, and if you could... somehow, some way, let them know you're not far behind. I miss you, I love you, and thank God for the time we spent together, Kathy. I'll see you again someday. God Bless.

Aunt Kathy,
I will always remember you with a smile on your face.  My earliest memories are easter Sunday at your house with all the family and great food.  All of my great childhood memories include you and your beautiful smile.  I know that my dad, Johnny and Rachel are exited to welcome their sister into the lords kingdom.  I love you aunt Kathy, and when we meet again, I know you'll be smiling at me.

Hey mom, your Cleo here :) I just want to let you know that I am truly blessed to have you as a mom, as well as anyone else who had the pleasure of having you in their life. Even though you aren't physically here; I am reminded somehow that you are still here with me. 

You always welcome everyone who came into your life, or your children's lives with open arms. Those that had the privilege of working with you love you because you're just so genuine,  sincere and kind hearted. I look at my siblings and am just so proud of them and who they are, who I am, and that's because of you. We are all strong, caring, passionate, loving, non-judgmental,  unselfish,  beautiful smarta**es.. and that's all from you mom. 

You sacrificed so much for us,  helped us when we needed, no questions asked, and were there for everything. If you couldn't be there, we'd know how much you hated not being there. All of us knew and were comfortable talking to you, and could always turn to you, and now we have the privilege of talking to you whenever we want. 

As much as we miss you.. we hated seeing you suffer more. We always know that one day we will have to lose those we love, it's the ugly circle of life and that it's out of our control. But I thank God for the pain lasting only a couple of months opposed to years. I thank God that all 5 of your children were able to be by your side on your final days and all together with you on your last day. I thank God for giving me you, my children you, and everyone else you. And mom, I am so so sorry for how many times you will face palm your forehead and shake your head as my guardian angel. Just know that I will always love you and I will see you again. ?

I still can't believe you are gone from this earth.  Seems just like yesterday you came with my mom and Helen to the niners game and spent the night at my house.  I'm glad I got to spend that time with you.  Please watch over my mom.  She didn't just lose a sister,  she lost her best friend.  Thank you auntie.  I love you.

My mother, my angel 
who is now in heaven up above,
Can finally be at peace, 
with the ones we miss and love.
  
Never thought I would lose you, 
which was my only fear
Even though all I feel is pain, 
I know in my heart you are always near.  

With the harsh reality of seeing you suffer, 
and take your last gasp of air,    
I had thought to myself that it shouldn't end like this
and it wasn't fair.  

It all came so sudden, 
so incredibly fast, 
now all I have are memories, moments to cherish and treasure
now that u have passed. 

You showed me forgiveness 
and taught me how to love, 
even in my stubborn moments, 
you would never give up.  

Always knowing how to make me smile, 
it hurts me to know I won't see yours for awhile.  
I am thankful and truly blessed to have had you by my side, 
you gave me such a wonderful life, 
I just never wanted to say goodbye.

Not only did we lose a mother, 
but our bestfriend, 
it gives me peace in knowing you hear me 
with every prayer I send.  

Never will I forget you,   
you are my heart, 
I do not fear death now 
because that means we will no longer be apart.  

And like you have said to me, 
a mothers love is unconditional
And never ending. 
I love you more than mostest mom, 
to infinity and beyond.

I can never thank u enough for taking me in when I was pregnant with Maykenzie. You treated me just as if I was one of your own. Never asked any questions just wanted to make sure we were safe and heathly. You are such an amazing woman and mother. I hope I can be half the mother and wife u were.  The heavens have definitely gained another angel. Please say hi to my dad for me, bet he would be honored to met a women who looked out for his daughter like you did. Love you!

From the minute I met you, you've been my 2nd mom.  For then, for now, and for always. Love you!

Every time I look at a picture of you I remember the talks we have had.. We had are differences but you are always there for me.. I never thought in all my life I would have to watch my beautiful Mother Leave this world. It has been heartbreaking but at the same time heartfelt to know that you are in a beautiful world with no worries watching over all of us that love you so much.. I will never speak of you in pass tense cause I know you are here with us, watching over us.  Its nice to know that I can talk to you when and where ever I want. I Love You with all my Heart. Until we meet again.

Heavenly Father, I come before you. I ask that you give Kathy peace. I pray she is finally resting pain free. Amen.

God saw you getting tired and a cure was not to be. 
So he put his arms around you and whispered "please come with me." 
Your golden heart stopped beating with your hard working hands at rest. 
God sure knew how to break our hearts to prove he only takes the best.

Kathy, I'm so sorry you had to leave us so soon. Please know that you're truly one of the greatest moms I ever knew. You remind me so much of my own mother .. she is my best friend, just as you are to your children. I know you're shining down from Heaven on the beautiful family you created. You did a hell of a job and for that I thank you. I love you and your family and am greatly honored to have had the pleasure of knowing you. Spending time together when I would come visit and our little talks while others were amongst themselves are irreplaceable. You have a special place in my heart Kathy ... I'll see you soon .. Please take care and know that I'll help take care Of your family just the same. I Love you! ??

I am very sorry to hear of your mother's passing away.  I was glad to have met her.  Know that my thoughts are with you. I know your heart is feeling heavy. My hope and prayer for all of you is that each day your hearts will feel lighter and lighter from the loss you are feeling, until one day only sweet memories remain to comfort you. May the love of your friends and family surround you and fill your heart in this difficult time.

I remember spending summers at Tio Willie and Tia Santos' home in Kettleman City. Kathy and I spent all day every day in the local swimming pool, then we'd walk to the Cove for snacks finding scorpions along the way.  Exciting stuff for a city girl. These are some of the most wonderful memories of my  childhood and of my beautiful cousin and her family.  I pray that your own memories and the love that she gave to you give you comfort during this difficult time.

Not only were you the greatest mother, but also the greatest grandmother, aunt, sister, cousin,  and friend.  You truly blessed us all with your loving caring presence.  From the moment I was born I have known unconditional love which can never be replaced.  You taught me so much about love, compassion, faith and forgiveness.  You always believed in me even when I found it impossible to believe in myself.  You meant and still mean the world to me,  and I want to thank you for giving us such a wonderful life and always being there in every single way.  I miss you so much and that is the reason my heart hurts, because I know I will have to continue on in life knowing I can't call you, hug you, see your beautiful smiling face, make you laugh.  So many countless things I will miss but I cherish all the wonderful memories you have blessed me with.  I can feel your presence, I know you are still there.  I am happy you are at peace in heaven, and I know you will make the greatest angel because you were my angel here on earth.  You are my everything, my heart and soul and I look forward to being with you.  I love you more then mostest to infinity and beyond.

Olivia and family,  my sincere condolences. Kathy was a lovely woman and she will be missed. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers. May the peace of the Lord be with you all.

Loving, beautiful, tender, are just some of the words that come to mind when people think of my aunt Kathy. She was so much more than hugs and kisses, I love yous and I miss yous. She was the light in dark rooms, the brightest smile in crowded places. She was the sun and the moon, and to many people like me, she was the world. She put love into everything and by everything I mean everything, from her cooking to the way she decorated the Christmas tree, to the way she would do her hair in the morning. Not only did she put love into everything, she invested so much love into her loved ones, even strangers. "Mija never forget that even people we may not know need love too." I'll always remember that lesson, of many, she taught me as we handed money to a homeless guy on the corner of the street. I could go on and on about how much aunt kathy meant to me, what she has taught me... But I think the best way to close this little message is to say that Aunt Kathy is love, she is the definition of it. Nothing less. I will forever remember your warm hugs and warm smiles that comforted the darkest days and brought light. You are light and you are love. I love you.

I will miss my cousin very much.  I have a lot fond memories and very glad that a few years ago had time to spend a vacation trip to Seattle with Kathy, Marian Cullen and Helen Chavarria.  My thoughts and prayers for her family.  Lulu (Mary Lou Acosta, Parks)

  To a wonderful sister that I had the privilege to play with when we were little kids and always getting into trouble with our parents and the good times together as grownups. You will always be in my heart and God Bless You Sis, Love your brother, Alex.

I didn't know u well dear Kathy but I do know u loved my daughters without hesitation and for that I will forever be grateful. May you rest in peace.

Olivia my prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.

I'm very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with your family. Our heavenly Father has one more beautiful angel! 
Trisha Rice

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Kathy will forever hold a piece of my heart. Her infectious laugh and beautiful smile brought so much happiness into my life when times were tough. She was truly an amazing woman and and mother figure in my life. She will be forever missed and remembered. Rest in paradise momma! XO

OBITUARY

Kathy Guerrero Villarreal

September 21, 1953 – December 4, 2014

People’s Funeral Chapel

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