Juana Villalon

Juana Maria Zamora Villalon born on October 20, 1929, went to the Lord on October 8, 2026. She will be greatly missed.

She was one of the thirteen children born to Agapito Zamora and Tranquilina Maldonado Zamora. Juana was a long time resident of Brawley, having lived for over 63 years with her husband Rosalio Villalon who died in 1987.

At a very young age she helped raise her siblings on a ranch owned by her father. She would get up at sunrise, and work all day at sunset. Her day would start by grinding the corn for tortillas, milking the cows, feeding the chickens and going to wash clothes. They were poor but they were able to put a good meal on the table.

At age 19 Juana married but her marriage did not last long. She had a daughter from that marriage. Afterwards a cousin invited her to come to Brawley where she met Rosalio and subsequently had a son. Their marriage lasted until the death of Rosalio in 1987.

Juana was a great self taught cook. Her shrimp tacos and tamales, and her chicken mole made from scratch were unique and delicious. Even her refried beans with homemade tortillas are just a few of her other unforgettable ones.

When she wasn't working she sewed clothes for the family, crochet incredible pieces including various versions of the Last Supper, her own masterpieces. She had very limited third grade education but was a bright and creative person. She learned to drive at the age of 65 allowing her to live independently into her 90's. She was a very strong willed warrior.

She was preceded in death by her parents: Agapito and Tranquilina Zamora; Husband, Rosalio Villalon and her beloved and grandson Richard I. Juarez.

Juana is survived by her son Carlos (Consuelo), her daughter Laura (Richard), and grandsons Marcus Juarez, Jose Carlos and Rodrigo Adrian Villalon.

With immense gratitude from Villalon and Juarez families, we thank Pioneers Skill Center , Accent Hospice and especially her caregivers Monica Martinez, Maribel Bravo and Lourdes Grado.

Viewing will be held at Frye chapel, Brawley, from 6-9, Sunday October 18. Funeral follow on Monday, October 19, at 9:00am , at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church with interment following at Riverview Cemetery. Celebration of life will be at 545 E.Street, Brawley.