On August 12, 2015, our beloved mother and “Mama Grande,” departed this life peacefully surrounded by her loving family at the age of 97. Felipa was born in Palmar del Real, Sinaloa, Mexico being one of nine children. In the early 40’s she traveled to California with her siblings where she worked as a migrant field worker. Eventually, she became a waitress of many years at Sal’s Mexican Inn. She then married Jackie Amata Abitia who preceded her in death in 2004 after 31 years of marriage. 

Her passion in life was gardening. She loved music, dancing, singing, traveling, and reading. She lived for every moment at all family functions. She enjoyed attending her Christian Faith Churches, Monte Zion in Oxnard and Iglesia Calvario in Camarillo, where she lived for the last 10 years with her granddaughter Sandra. 

She is survived by her only daughter from Arizona, Yolanda (Garcia) Chong (Cesar) and her 4 grandchildren: Fausto Garcia (Carmen), Leticia Gonzales (Lorenzo), Gabriel Garcia (Paola), and Sandra Rubio (Joey). Ten great grand kids, and 1 great-great granddaughter. Also, her son Sergio Garcia and three grand kids. She is survived by her two sisters, Inez Pano Almanza (95) and Juventina Pano Clyde (90). Alice & Emily were considered like daughters along with her many other wonderful nieces and nephews. 

She will be remembered as a classy lady, town medicine woman, always willing to help and for living life to the fullest with no fear.