Celia Gonzalez

Celia B. "Tiiana" Gonzalez, 77, of Winslow, died Thursday, Aug. 12, 2010.

Mrs. Gonzalez was born Sept. 20, 1932, and she was the youngest of seven children born to Bruillo and Cyprana Baca in Concho, Ariz. She was the last of her brothers and sisters Julia, Alice, Lydia, Sylvia, Freddy and Georgie to enter heaven, and she will meet her parents again there as well.

Upon marrying her lifelong companion, Apolinar "Polin" Gonzalez on Jan. 19, 1949, she gained yet another family to love and care for. They were married 61 years and raised five children with love, compassion, integrity, grace, togetherness and faith.

Mrs. Gonzalez dedicated a large amount of her time helping others when in need. When someone was sick, she was right there for them. The last few years of her life, she volunteered at the Compassion Pantry, or as she called it, "The Gimmie Store" with Doug and Naomi Evans.

Hondah was her stress reliever. She also enjoyed shopping around town with her daughters and grandchildren, especially at the Goodwill.

She also loved to cook; her food was legendary. Her love for her children and family was unmatched by any other.

She is survived by her husband; children Dorthy Hunt (Abie), Lindy Gonzalez (Tommy), Anthony Gonzalez (Candy), Darlene Jaquez (Roy) and Geraldine Manning (Chuck); 11 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. She will also be truly missed by her K-9 companion, Poncho.

Holy rosary and Mass will be today at 9:30 a.m. at Madre De Dios Catholic Church in Winslow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her name to: "The Compassion Pantry" P.O. Box 872, Winslow, AZ 86047. Condolences can be sent to www.greersmortuary.com