Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
BORN
1973
DIED
2016
Giovanna Verdugo Obituary
On April 1, 2016 heaven chose another angel at the young age of 42. Born Giovanna Rena Verdugo on July 11, 1973, Gigi graduated from Grand Canyon University in 1998, and went on to become an Elementary School Teacher. Her teaching career ended after seven months due to a sudden diagnosis of Hodgkin's Lymphoma Cancer. She conquered two challenging battles of Hodgkin's Stage 3 and Stage 4, and was in remission for 15 years. Her love of children and passion for helping others, along with her spirit of giving was perpetuated with her ministry "Project Christmas." She developed this program to assist those less fortunate year round. This was something that her grandfather, Deacon Bob Chavez previously started, and she wanted to continue his work. She was an Executive Board Member of Valle Del Sol, and a Quality Care Network Representative. She was heavily involved in the community, and she fought for mental health issues. She volunteered with the Creighton School District; managed the food bank program for Valley Christian Center; and assisted with the Friendly House food bank program. Her resourcefulness was invaluable for all the agencies that she worked with. Her legacy of giving to others, as well as her selfless and loving nature will remain and continue on through each of us. Gigi is survived by her only child, Makayla (Kayla) C Verdugo, her beloved dog Chica, mother Becky Castro (Fiancé Konstantine), father George Verdugo, sister Glory Verdugo, brother Brian Verdugo, Step-Father Ray Castro, niece Delicia Wood, nephew Damon Wood III, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, and friends. The celebration of her life will be on Saturday, April 16, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. Mass at St. Francis Catholic Church 4715 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85012, internment at St. Francis Cemetery 2033 N. 48th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85008. A Re-Birth day celebration follows at St. Francis Church hall. In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Joseph Apache Mission, 626 Mission Road, Mescalero NM 88340.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Giovanna Verdugo
Rose Ann Rodriguez (PENA)
April 15, 2016
Romans 8:28
And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
What a beautiful story... one a mother should b so proud of ...my condolences to u Ms Becky Castro.
Zona Pacheco
April 14, 2016
My deepest condolences to the family of GiGi Verdugo. She has been an inspiration to the community. I have worked with her the past few years on her holiday gift give away. She has provided many families with gifts who might otherwise not have any. She has truly given of herself to help others and she will be greatly missed!
Kevin Luke
April 13, 2016
My condolences to Gigi's family on their loss of a wonderful, caring, and loving lady. Vaya con Dios, mi amiga.
Carmen Telleria
April 13, 2016
My deepest condolences to the Verdugo family...Gigi's story is beautifully written, she led a very impressive and fulfilling life giving back to her community in so many ways. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Rest in peace, Gigi.
C L
April 13, 2016
Please accept my condolences on your loss. May your memories comfort your heart; and God help your family during this time of sorrow. Isa.41:13
Kendra Miles
April 13, 2016
Those were beautiful words and the picture really captured her beauty & spirit! Her memory will definitely live on through the family and hopefully will help bring you all together in a positive way. My condolences to you and your family. I pray for your strength daily.
April 13, 2016
George, "Toche" my good friend, sorry for your loss, My heart and prayers are with you, I know its hard to find words that will heal, but know that myself, my wife Betty are praying for you and your family for your great loss. Love you my good childhood friend.
Chelsea
April 13, 2016
I pray for strength and unconditional love and devotion among all your family.
Tiffany Hinton
April 13, 2016
Beautifully written! My condolences to your family! I pray for strength and peace!
Showing 1 - 9 of 9 results
Make a Donation
in Giovanna Verdugo's name
Memorial Events
for Giovanna Verdugo
How to support Giovanna's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Giovanna Verdugo's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
