Celia M Rivera

Celia was born in Douglas, AZ on January 4, 1946, to Rosa (Gomez) & Luis Melendez. She is survived by Carlos Rivera, her husband of 58 years; daughters, Elizabeth Nuñez (Phillip), Gloria Cota (Sergio), Carla Dominguez (Jesus), nine grandchildren, three great-grandchildren; her brother, Luis Melendez (Ana), and many beloved, nieces, nephews and life-long friends. She is preceded in death by her daughter, Rosemarie Rivera and her sister, Gloria Flores.

Celia was an inspiring soul, always there for all who came to her. As the family matriarch, she so much loved and cherished her family and made them her priority. She had her own special relationship with each of us, and someone you could always count on for great advice and guidance. She was known for her fun-loving attitude, positive outlook and for always making us laugh. Everyone knew about her love of cooking and anytime you went to visit, you could always count on her offering you something delicious. As she used to say, “even if it’s just a bean burrito.” She taught many of us to cook and shared her delicious recipes. She made the best tamales!

She was not only an educator in her family’s lives but in the lives of many students. Celia primarily worked as a Special-Education Aide in the Sunnyside School District where she made several life-long friends and touched the lives on many students and staff. She absolutely loved her job and those she worked with. During her retirement, she enjoyed her time helping with her grandchildren, cooking and a trip to the casino on occasion. Celia was immensely proud of her family and leaves behind nothing but beautiful memories.

Family and friends are invited to Funeral Mass services on Monday, January 22, 2024 at St. Monica’s Catholic Church, located at 212 W Medina Rd., Tucson; with Rosary recited at 10AM and funeral mass at 10:30AM. A celebration of her life to follow at 1pm at Puerta Antigua Event Center located at 5358 S. Nogales Hwy, Tucson.