Armida G Valadez Obituary (1950 - 2025)

On behalf of the Valadez & Gamboa families, we wish to share with you the life and legacy of our beautiful mother, Armida G. Valadez. Born on August 1st, 1950, in Brawley, California, Armida was a beacon of warmth and mental sharpness that illuminated our lives until her passing on September 27th, 2025. Armida was an example of strength and wisdom, and a source of unconditional love for her family and friends. Her distinctive smart wit and vivacious spirit were the hallmark of her personality, which will be remembered by all whose lives she touched. Her love for her family was boundless, and her home was a haven of comfort and laughter where her door was always open to her family. She was a pillar of strength, her fierce spirit an integral part of our family's fabric. Armida was a beloved mother and grandmother to her children and grandchildren; her son, Gustavo "Sonny" Valadez, her daughter Cynthia Valadez and her son Kruzificio "Kross" Valadez, and son Daniel & wife Martha Valadez and their daughters Mia Valadez, Maí Valadez, as well as sister to her benevolent brother Arthur Gamboa & wife Mary, and aunt to her affectionate nephews Michael Gamboa, James Gamboa and niece Lisa Gamboa. She leaves behind a legacy of generosity, love, and resilience that will continue to inspire us and future generations. Armida was preceded in death by her parents, Milton Gamboa and Maria Magdalena Guerrero, and her siblings, Milton “June” Gamboa Jr. and Maria Luisa Gamboa as she joins them while they all continue to watch over us. Armida was a woman of many talents and interests. She was smart, resilient, and always ready with a clever remark, often leaving us with a smile. Armida indulged in the thrill of a good spooky movie with her three favorite monsters, Danny, Cindy, and Sonny, and as an avid reader, enjoyed the mystery of Stephen King, Dean Koontz, and John Grisham's novels. Her daily calls with her best friend, Margaret Johnson, were a cherished routine, as were her favorite daily TV shows. Armida also had a sweet spot for her cafecito with canela and a cochito, her favorite pan dulce. Armida was a proponent of support for the community. As a community liaison for the Migrant Education Program in the El Centro Elementary School District, she dedicated more than two decades of her life to ensuring countless migrant students had access to essential services. Her commitment to her work was unwavering, often making house calls late into the night to help families in need. Her work was a testament to her tenacity and generous spirit, teaching us to never take our lives for granted. In memory of Armida, we invite you to share your stories, photos, and memories on her memorial page. Your contributions will help us celebrate Armida's life, remember her unique qualities, and keep her spirit alive in our hearts. As we mourn our loss, let us also celebrate the life of this extraordinary woman who touched so many lives. As Catholics, we find solace in the belief that Armida is now at peace in the loving arms of God, where there is no more pain or suffering. "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted." (Matthew 5:4) Rest in peace, mom. You did good mom, real good. Please join us for a mass to be held October 25th, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Church, 795 S. La Brucherie Road, El Centro, California. In Armida's honor, a celebration of life will immediately follow as everyone is invited to join us for a gathering in the St. Gregory Hall next door.