Jesusita Montez

Jesusita C. Montez, 85 passed peacefully in her sleep Sunday, July 26, 2026. After several nights of family bringing "home" to her, Jesusita (Susie went to her final Mass in the Heavens, while her granddaughter held her hand. Susie was a devout Catholic who never waivered in faith or love of God, even at the very end. The matriarch of the family, she set the precedent for hard work and perseverance. For 38 years she worked at the Metropolitan Hospital, becoming a living icon and well loved employee amongst co workers and patients alike. She also enjoyed her two years working in the public library, continuing to be a helping hand in her community.

She received many awards and accolades for her work ethic and dedication within her community. When Susie wasn't working, she was keeping busy hand painting cascarones. She provided 100's of cascarones for family, friends, and close community members for many years. Susie was also a lover of animals, from her loyal pups to neighborhood birds and squirrels, no animal went hungry in her presence. Most importantly, Susie was enamored with love and pride for her family. She never refused a visit, especially if it involved coffee and a sweet treat. You never left her porch without a blessing and a pinch on the nose to seal in the love. Small but fiesty, gentle but fierce, Jesusita will be greatly missed.

Jesúsita was preceded in death by her parents, Guadalupe and Guillermo Cardenas; her siblings, Helen Guzman and Juan “Johnny” Cardenas.

She is lovingly survived by her children, Liza (Javier) Estrada, Vincent (Margie) Montez Jr., Joseph (Angie) Montez, and Mary Adame; her sisters, Consuelo Granado, Isabel Hinojosa, and Ophelia Reyna; 11 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews who will forever cherish her love, guidance, and unwavering support.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to her devoted caregivers: Liza, Angie, Lisa, Jessica, and Baldemar III as well as the compassionate staff at VITAS Healthcare Inpatient Hospice for the exceptional care and kindness they provided.

Though deeply missed, Susie’s legacy of faith, generosity, compassion, and unconditional love will continue to live on in all who had the privilege of knowing her.

We love you to pieces Mom, Gma and Great Gma.