Mrs. Maria Dolores Castillo

Maria Dolores "Lola" Castillo was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, spiritual sister, and cherished friend whose kindness, faith, and joyful spirit touched countless lives.

Lola was born on February 13, 1940, in Colima, Mexico, to Francisco and Maclovia Corona. She was one of twenty-two siblings and grew up surrounded by the love and strength of a large family. From an early age, she developed the compassion, generosity, and resilience that would define her throughout her life.

On July 20, 1968, Lola married the love of her life, Johnny Castillo, after knowing each other for only two weeks. Following their wedding, they traveled together on Johnny's motorcycle to San Jose, California, where they built a beautiful life together and shared the same home for the next fifty-seven years. Together they lovingly raised their four daughters—Rachel, Sonia, Debbie, and Jennifer—creating a home filled with faith, laughter, hospitality, and unconditional love.

For twenty-five years, Lola operated a daycare from her home, lovingly caring for generations of children as if they were her own. Her patience, warmth, and nurturing heart left a lasting impression on every family she served.

Nothing was more important to Lola than her relationship with Jehovah God. After learning about the Bible through her father-in-law Jesus V. Castillo, she dedicated her life to Jehovah and was baptized as one of Jehovah's Witnesses on February 8, 1988, at the Cow Palace in San Francisco, California, together with her daughter Sonia.

Lola found great joy in sharing the Bible's message of hope with others. She especially enjoyed preaching at Bacesto Park, where many people came to know her for her warm smile and encouraging conversations. Her love for the ministry inspired many, and throughout the years numerous individuals thanked her for helping them come to know Jehovah and the hope found in the Scriptures.

She also enjoyed serving others through hospitality. Whether preparing meals for Pioneer School, congregation gatherings, or family celebrations, Lola expressed her love through cooking. Her potato salad became legendary among family and friends, and her menudo and many other traditional Mexican dishes were always requested and eagerly anticipated.

Lola's creativity and enthusiasm for life extended far beyond the kitchen. She enjoyed making jewelry and crafts, gardening, reading the Bible and Bible-based publications each day, singing, dancing, and listening to music. Some of her favorite artists included Ana Gabriel, Rocío Dúrcal, Juan Gabriel, Jenni Rivera, Julio Iglesias, John Denver, Kenny Rogers, and Dolly Parton.

She and Johnny loved spending time together, creating memories that included winning first place in a dance contest at Johnny's company picnic at FMC. Their marriage was built on love, friendship, faith, and unwavering devotion.

Above all, Lola treasured her family. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought her endless happiness, and she delighted in every opportunity to spend time with them. Saturday family dinners became a cherished tradition, filled with delicious food, laughter, music, stories, and unforgettable family game nights. Her home was a place where everyone felt welcomed, accepted, and deeply loved.

Lola also loved animals and looked forward to Jehovah's promise of Paradise, where peace will exist throughout the earth. Her confidence in the resurrection gave her comfort and strengthened those around her, reminding them that this goodbye is only temporary.

Although her passing has left an immeasurable void, Lola's faith, kindness, generosity, laughter, delicious cooking, beautiful smile, and steadfast love will continue to live on in the hearts of everyone who knew her. Her legacy is reflected not only in her family but also in the many lives she touched through her compassion, hospitality, and faithful service to Jehovah.

The Castillo family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the family members, caregivers, friends, and brothers and sisters in the congregation whose love, support, and kindness surrounded Lola throughout her life and especially during her final days.

With Jehovah's promise firmly in their hearts, her family looks forward to the day when they will welcome Lola home again in Paradise.

With love,

Johnny Castillo and Family