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Victoria Avey Obituary
May 13, 1976 - Jul. 4, 2015
Watsonville
Victoria Kathleen Avey passed from this life into the arms of Jesus on July 4, 2015 in Watsonville, California.
Victoria was born in Palo Alto, California and spent her early years in San Ramon and San Jose. She graduated from San Jose State University then earned a California Teaching Credential. Victoria worked in the Santa Cruz county school district starting as secretary at the Soquel Elementary School and most recently worked at the District office.
Victoria, much loved by all, was active in church and the community. She loved hiking in the nearby forest, the permaculture movement, and had recently fulfilled her dream of raising chickens. Her newly created garden serves as a testament to her love of nature and the Santa Cruz area. She will be remembered for the twinkle in her emerald eyes, a sincere smile, and the way she graciously and wholeheartedly served others.
Victoria is survived by her husband Devin Avey of Watsonville, Ca, her mother Rose Whitefield and stepfather Dr. Rodney Whitefield of San Jose, CA, sister Aimee Uzzi of Kalispell, MT, sister Lilly Ann Lindsey of Petaluma, CA, brother Peter Riddlebarger of Fort Worth, TX and brother Eric Whitefield of Santa Cruz, CA.
Memorial services will be held at Twin Lakes Church, 2701 Cabrillo College Drive, Aptos, CA at 3:30 pm, Friday July 10, 2015. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Victoria's name to Samaritan's Purse for international relief.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Victoria Avey
Sponsored by santacruzsentinel.com.
Ann DiCiano
July 3, 2022
I was just talking about and remembering Vic, as we called her, the other day. It is impossible to measure the impact she had on so many lives, but one thing for sure is that it has been lasting!! We will carry on her love and joy everyday!
Joshua Mamangun
May 18, 2021
Mrs. Avey was an amazing person, even at the age young age that I was in elementary school when I got to meet her, I was able to realize this. I recently thought back and realized that she taught me so many little things when I was a kid and they've stuck with me even now into my 20's. I'll always remember the moment when we were in the nurses office at Soquel elementary and she taught me how to properly wash my hands, "make sure to get in between your fingers!" as well as all the times you chatted with me while I waited for my mom to pick me up late in the office. I was heart broken when I heard the news, I was just getting into high school and it made me realize a lot of things. Thank you for the little lessons you've taught me, and thank you for always patching me up and helping me feel better when I got hurt in the playground. I really think these small acts of kindness have made me a better person, and I strive to make people smile the way you did.
Ann
August 6, 2020
I loved Vic! How fortunate to have known her. She was a beautiful human being and I miss her!
Ann DiCiano
July 2, 2019
I still think of Victoria so often. She became part of and influenced my life in ways she would not have known, and I did not expect. I continue to be saddened that she is not in our lives that she made so special.
Joanne Hildreth
September 19, 2015
Victoria brought so much love into my life. She was a true blue friend to me, the kind you wait for all your life. I will always love her. T'amo Victoria. Your Mama J.
July 15, 2015
So so sad to hear of this news. Another bright light has gone out, hopefully towards a greater light.
Another wake up call for more understanding and compassion in this world, this experiment that we all share.
What words can express the loss we feel now? it's too late for words. (but I write them anyway because Vic's passing and whatever she felt in life deserves acknowledgement). My heart goes out to her family and husband.
It is not too late to wake up to the call for more compassionate awareness, seeing beyond what we think we see in every day, willing to be more loving, more understanding, more gentle, in this world that is often difficult and most of us are preoccupied with what we are experiencing on the surface or the busy-ness of our work. Let the dimming of one spark ignite a greater spark.
Harried or restful, Vic's spark was always visible. I see her smile now and hear her laugh.
A school is like a microcosm of life and human relationships. Victoria was the glue for so much of what went on in that busy community on Porter Street.
From her admonishment to me not using too much of her scotch tape on pony mail envelopes just a bit in each corner, to her knowing look and smile when she knew you needed one. When Victoria left Soquel, it was another brick loosed in the foundation of that school. I will never forget her.
Sara S.
Erin, Jeff & Trevor Allshouse
July 12, 2015
We are just so saddened for Devin and all those who have been impacted by Victorias death. It was such a shock and we are keeping you in our prayers and hearts through such a grief stricken period. You are appreciated and we send Gods loving arms of comfort to you at this time of great loss. Many blessings to you in the days to come. Sincerely, Jeff, Erin & Trevor Allshouse
July 11, 2015
This is a time to remember the fond memories and cherish every moment of them. This is time that the peace that comes from prayer will comfort you all.
christine grooby
July 11, 2015
Ms Avey was such a sweet and lovable lady while we knew her at Soquel Elementary. Blake and I remember her and will hold her in deep fondness. May she rest in peace.
Sofie Maervoet
July 11, 2015
Dear Rose, dear Aimee,
There is nothing one can say to make this bearable. We are all devastated by what has happened. My thoughts are with you in these difficult times. I couldn't find you on Facebook so I hope you will receive the message this way. My love to you Sofie (the Belgian friend)
Sally Jones
July 11, 2015
To Devin, Family, Friends, and Pastor, I thank you for being so open-hearted, tender,and honest in making a very difficult task so special,unique, meaningful, and beautiful for precious Victoria--& for a packed large church, filled with those who loved her.
You all did an amazing job--& with such Grace. Thank you for sharing, when it was so hard to do so. The emotion still resonates...It was a special and remarkable service for Victoria, whom I will always remember with fondness.
danna cardenas
July 10, 2015
i will always remember her she was super nice kind and wonderful please send her flowers
Jessica Murray
July 10, 2015
Victoria was one of the sweetest, kindest people I have ever known. I had the privilege of being her coworker this year and saw how she melted peoples' hearts daily with her genuine affection and hugs. There is no one else like her and never will be. Peace and strength to her family-- she was so loved in the community as well as by you. Love you, Vic.
July 10, 2015
May God Bless Victoria's family with the peace in knowing she is with Jesus now. We know he will take good care of her. She was a sweetie.
Cindy Boram
Teena Flacco
July 10, 2015
Mrs. Avery was one of my favorite people to see at Soquel Elementary. always with a smile and a hug if you needed one. She will forever be in our memories. We love and miss you.
Eric Gross
July 10, 2015
Goodbye. I shall miss you terribly.
Christi Mansel
July 10, 2015
I was blessed to have Vicki for a roommate for a short while until she began her married life with Devin. Her laugh and love of the simple things in life were a blessing to me and to many.
Bernie
July 10, 2015
I hadn't know Victoria for long, but for the short time we worked with her, she was just a sparkle of joy and a sweet person. She would drop by with fruits and things to share with us. So sad. We will miss you Victoria.
Stephanie
July 10, 2015
May the God of all comfort strengthen the entire family during this time of sorrow. Those who pass on, God keeps in his memory because they are precious in his eyes. (Psalms 116:15) My sincerest sympathy
Gabriella Manship
July 9, 2015
I am so deeply saddened by this unexpected loss of such a sweet and wonderful person. She w b missed by so many!!! We knew her from Soquel elem, I'm so sad for her and her family. She was so wonderful to my son.. He w b very sad to hear this...
But I'm glad we got the chance and time to know her, though even for a little bit. Bless her pain and sadness and wonderful things she brought to our community. Peace and love Victoria ❤❤
Mady Harrison
July 9, 2015
A beautiful and genuine young and vibrant peice of my life, we will always remember the smiles you brought to our children's faces and the happiness you brought everyday to Soquel Elementry. You are truly now an angel looking down on a garden of lives you simply made better just by being the genuine young lady you were... And will forever be.
Sara Welch
July 9, 2015
Ms. Avey was a bright light in the office of Soquel Elementary for years. My daughter and I both loved her. She was always kind and we appreciated her very much. She will be missed. Rest in peace Ms. Avey.
Sheryl Pinard
July 9, 2015
What sad and shocking news. You will be tremendously missed Victoria!!! Thank you for being so good to my children at Soquel Elementary and sharing your wonderful, sweet, welcoming smile each morning for 6 years. You leave behind an empty space in my heart.
Kelly and family
July 8, 2015
My condolences to Victoria's family and friends. She was an amazing person and a beautiful human being. She made my daughters transition to Soquel Elementry a breeze. She knew everyone by name that walked into the office. She was one of a kind with a great big heart and will be missed
Carol Famularo
July 8, 2015
My heart hurts to hear this news. I remember her being so bubbly, friendly and kind. Such a wonderful person! My prayers will be for God's strength for Devin and the family. I know she will be in heaven to greet us when we arrive.
Gisela Taboada
July 8, 2015
I will never forget how sweet Victoria was to all the children and parents in the Soquel/Capitola community. She always knew everyone by name and genuinely cared about all the students at Soquel Elementary. My son, Isaiah Rocha, was a student there from K-5th grade, she always would talk to him, ask him how he was doing, and really cared about his well being. I know that every time I walked in that office Victoria would help me with a smile on her face. We are really saddened by this news. Sending Victoria's family lots of hugs.
karyn jones
July 8, 2015
so sorry for your loss very heartbreaking go with GOD
steph Lancaster
July 8, 2015
So sorry for ur loss. Your Arkansas family loves you. Praying for peace for your hearts.
July 8, 2015
One of the most true and genuine people you would ever meet. A smile to light up any room and the biggest heart. She truly loved everyone and I will never, ever forget how special she was. My prayers go out to her family. Love and miss you always Miss Avey. Sparkman Family.
Sally Jones
July 8, 2015
Victoria was dearly loved and appreciated by everyone at Soquel Elementary School. She was so bright, organized, and caring--a real cracker-jack--& she tackled huge tasks with a breeze. So amazingly efficient--and thoughtful. I still make the Vegetable-Lentil Soup that she kindly made for teachers during long parent conference days. Vic was a real giver. I wish that she had never left Soquel. I grieve the loss of her precious life. So many people--parents, teachers, and children--are jarred by this loss.
I send my condolences to family and friends and her extended family at Soquel.
Ashley Nesmith
July 8, 2015
We will miss seeing you every morning at school ms Avery. Thank you for making it a wonderful experience and we know you are in a better place. Love Ashley and Liliana Nesmith
Jeff Casey
July 8, 2015
So sad to hear the news. You always made the room brighter and your famous hugs are the warmest that anyone has given. You always cheered up those who were down. Thank you for your friendship. You made being a youth sponsor a joy. May the Fathers arms give you all the peace you need. Until me meet again.....
Sanya Cypert
July 8, 2015
A very tearful goodbye to a beautiful woman. Victoria was so incredibly warm and kind to ALL. My children and I loved her presence at our little school, Soquel Elementary. She always remembered my name when I walked in to the office, knew who my children were without my inquiry and always knew what we needed. She took the time to call me when she knew I was going through a difficult time and it brought me to tears knowing I had her love and support. I will never forget her kindness and bright, warm smile.
May she rest in peace.
Christine Marez
July 8, 2015
I am very saddened to hear the news of Victoira's passing. Ms. Avey was such a bright and vivacious person, such a joy to encounter in the Soquel Elem office. She really cared about the kids and parents and gave each of them her full attention while they were in her presence. She will be missed.
July 8, 2015
Sad to hear of Victoria's passing. She always had a kind, warm smile that made anyone feel welcome whenever they walked into the office at Soquel Elementary.
She will be missed. And blessed are the lives of those who had the fortune of knowing her!
My Condolences to her family and close friends!
RIP
Aimee Uzzi
July 8, 2015
Your hugs, the genuine loving embrace that lingers long enough to say, " I love you, you are my seester... And I don't ever want to let you go...." I will miss those more than anything.... I long for the day I can see your smile and hold you tight again... And on that day, in the light of Jesus we will celebrate the absence of darkness.... I love you more than words can say .... I still can't believe you're gone.... Lord give us all the strength to face each day, one at a time until we rest in Your eternal embrace.
Rose Sonrise
July 7, 2015
Victoria was the sweetest and most caring angel that I had the privilege to work next to and have my children experience. I am deeply saddened and am sending my best wishes to her family.
Laura Cruse
July 7, 2015
Peace for you Devin in this difficult time. We send our humble condolences and celebrate your wife's spirit and life.
Sincerely Laura and family
Kelly McCarthy
July 7, 2015
Vicky had Jesus' light in her eyes. She always had a smile and an encouraging word for everyone she met. She had a naturally uplifting spirit that always made you feel good in her presence. She will be deeply missed - always.
Susan Turner
July 7, 2015
Such a sweet caring person. So sad to say goodbye. My condolences to her family. We are all saddened by your loss.
July 7, 2015
One of the kindest, gentlest souls I've ever met!
Jamie
July 7, 2015
Victoria was the reason we chose Soquel Elementary as my daughter's school. Her warm, kind smile as we entered the office was so welcoming, and could brighten anyone's day. She will be greatly missed.
Peter Riddlebarger
July 7, 2015
My dearest little sister Vicky or "critter" . I never forget the day I arrived back to the states. You and Aimee were so excited about meeting their big brother from far away. I have a smile wonderful smile with an infectious little laugh. You had the biggest blue eyes that one could spot from miles away. I did not get to know you very well since we moved to Texas. Facebook was a blessing of sorts in keeping up with you and Aimee. Your departure has hit all of us very hard and we miss you. It is amazing to see and read all the wonderful things people say about you. We love you we will always carry you in our hearts. May you find peace and comfort in the arms of our lord. Until we see each other again, love from your big brother and family. Amen
Cindy Riddlebarger
July 7, 2015
I will remember you as my sweet, darling 16 year old sister-in-law who caught my bouquet at our wedding. Rest peacefully in our Lord's loving arms. ♡ Cindy
Troy K
July 7, 2015
Vic was so sweet every time we met, always smiling and thoughtful in her words. My heart goes out to my good friend Devin and her entire family. - Troy K.
Lupe Ibarra
July 7, 2015
Mrs. Avey,
Every time I walked in to the school office you always greeted me with a friendly hello. My daugher loved going in to the office and knew that you would take great care of her. You touched our lives in many ways, both of my kids will never forget you and will be in our hearts for ever.
Todd K
July 7, 2015
Vic will be missed greatly. Many fun times of Catan. She always beat us.
Laura Sorn
July 7, 2015
Although I didn't know you well, you always had a smile on your face and a kind word to say. Rest in peace.
July 6, 2015
Every single time I saw Vic--and that was many hundreds of times--she had a warm and sincere smile to give. Whether she was running around, tackling the workload of 3 people, or just chillin with her veggies and rice at her special 'warm spot' by the mural, she always had love to give.
I will miss you Vic. The World is a better place because you were in it.
Skip
Ann DiCiano
July 6, 2015
Victoria was loved by all. She was more than our secretary at Soquel Elementary School. She was a patient and attentive workhorse as well as a counselor, director, hugger, coworker, teammate, colleague, partner and sidekick! I know she will be greatly missed by everyone who new her. She was a love, a shining light in our day as we entered the office. I am so sad but wish her family glorious memories, peace and healing to come.
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