Virginia Bertoldo

Virginia was born on October 17, 1932, in Safford, Arizona. When she was two years old, her family moved to Visalia, California, where she was raised and spent her childhood years.

Family was at the heart of Virginia’s life. As the mother of nine children and the matriarch of a large and ever-growing family, she treasured the time spent surrounded by those she loved. Over the years, family gatherings and annual vacations created countless memories that she held dear. Virginia always knew the latest happenings in everyone’s lives and took a genuine interest in keeping up with her children, grandchildren, and the generations of family that followed.

One of Virginia’s greatest gifts was her cooking. With nine children to feed, she became an incredible cook, preparing meals that brought her family together around the table. She was especially known for her Mexican cooking, although her talents in the kitchen extended far beyond that. Some family favorites included her Arizona-style enchiladas, carne adobada, chili verde, and the tamales she made at Christmastime. Her children learned to prepare many of their favorite dishes simply by watching her in the kitchen and practicing what she had taught them. Through those recipes and traditions, Virginia passed down more than a love of good food—she created a family legacy that will continue to be shared from one generation to the next.

When she was younger, Virginia enjoyed planting a vegetable garden each year with her husband. She was also talented at embroidery and lovingly created handmade gifts for members of her family. As the years went on, she found enjoyment in playing bingo and trying her luck at the penny machines at the casino—especially if it was somewhere, she could enjoy a cigarette at the same time.

Those who knew Virginia will remember her as someone who was never afraid to speak her mind. She was direct, honest, and always let you know exactly how she was feeling. Along with that strong personality came a wonderfully silly and funny side. She loved making people laugh and had a way of making those around her feel welcomed and part of the family.

Virginia is survived by her sister, Helen Weber; her daughters, Lanise Hernandez, Judy Nero and her husband, Mike Nero, and Anna Sheldon and her husband, John Sheldon; as well as 22 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren, and 20 great-great-grandchildren—with her beautiful family continuing to grow.

She was preceded in death by her 11 siblings; her husband, John Velasco; and six of her children, Linda Bermudez, Albert Alvino Navarette Jr., Barbara Mae Navarette, Cynthia May Casillas, Chris A. Navarette, and John Jr. Velasco.

Virginia’s life can be measured not only by her 93 years, but by the generations of family she helped create and the memories and traditions she leaves with them. Her honesty, humor, laughter, handmade gifts, treasured recipes, family gatherings, and unmistakable personality will continue to be remembered and shared by those who loved her.

Her family will forever carry her memory in their hearts, in the recipes and traditions she passed down, and in the many stories that will undoubtedly be told for generations to come.