Maria Rita Lopez Zazueta

Maria Rita Lopez Zazueta, a loving and compassionate mother, born on May 2, 1923, in Culiacán, Sinaloa, Mexico, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2026. Maria Rita, who was known for her witty sense of humor and generous spirit, had been a resident of Brawley, California for 70 years. She was a dedicated homemaker in which she made the best homemade tortillas and tamales in the world. Mother to 7 children which were her pride and joy in life. She worked as a dedicated farm laborer in the agricultural industry for 25 years. She was dedicated Roman Catholic and a member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help; and devoted especially to "La Virgencita de Guadalupe". She enjoyed knitting and crocheting. She loved her dogs beyond measure. She tended to chickens, loved gardening and maintained a pristine yard until the age of 97. She was an active member at the Brawley senior center. She was also a regular in "Zumba Gold" classes, even performing for crowds at the local fair. Above all, Maria Rita cherished her family, and she was a dedicated mother known fondly as "Nana Keena" to many.

Maria Rita is survived by her daughters, Guadalupe Soto [Greg], and Gracie Granados [Michael✝️]. Sons John [Eva], Raymond [Yvette] and Jeff [Socorro] Zazueta. Also, she had 9 grandchildren Jesse, Sonia, Gilbert, Luis Zazueta; Greg Jr., Gabriel, Jonathan Soto; Sergio, Louis Granados; and 11 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her late husband Luis F. Zazueta, sons Joe and Gilbert Zazueta, father, Gumercindo Lopez, her mother, Jesus Moreno; and her 6 siblings Luciano, Luisa, Adolfo, Gregorio, Maria Ninfa and Maria Magdalena. Maria Rita's legacy will live on through the lives she touched and the memories she created. She was a beacon of love and strength, a woman who stood tall amidst adversity.

The viewing, rosary, mass, and committal service for Maria Rita will be held on Friday, July 10, 2026. The viewing will commence at 8:00 am at Frye Chapel Mortuary & Crematory, followed by the rosary at 8:45 am. The mass will be held at 10:00 am at St. Margaret Mary Church. The committal service will follow at 11:30 am at Riverview Cemetery.

We kindly invite those who knew and loved Maria Rita Lopez Zazueta to share their memories and upload photos to the memorial page. As we remember Maria Rita, we celebrate her life filled with love, strength, and compassion. Her spirit will forever remain in our hearts, and her legacy will continue to inspire us.