Wilhelmina "Willie" Padilla

Wilhelmina Padilla Obituary

WILHELMINA "WILLIE" PADILLA

1919 - 2008

A very popular, green-eyed beauty known for her flowing blonde hair amidst sparkling green eyes passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 18. Willie, 89, was loving and caring and her glamour was only enhanced by her extraordinary wit and humor, enjoyed by all.
Born in San Francisco, Willie came from a prominent pioneer family. Her parents, Dario and Concepcion Padilla, journeyed from San Francisco, arriving and settling in Calexico in 1923. They had seven children, Ruben, Conchita Enicinas and Peter (each deceased), and Margarita De Necochea of Calexico and Oscar Padilla and Carlos Padilla of San Diego. She also leaves numerous nieces and nephews who loved her dearly.
Willie served her country during World War II as a civil defense aerial observer in Calexico at a time when the government had a high tower located at the existing fire department building. Willie retired from the local cable company. Previous jobs included hostessing at Hollies Restaurant. She was best remembered, however, for gracing Calexico's Fox Theatre throughout the 60's with her glamorous Hollywood-type presence, serving as the "box office girl".
Willie was a devout Catholic, loved by numerous parishoners, friends and family. She loved Calexico, and she especially enjoyed reminiscing about her hometown's beloved "good old days".
She will be missed by all who loved her dearly.
Visitation will be at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Calexico on Thursday, October 23 with a Rosary at 7 p.m.
Mass will be today Friday, October 24 at 10 a.m. with Father Charles Fuld officiating.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Imperial Valley Press Online from Oct. 22 to Oct. 24, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Wilhelmina Padilla

11 Entries

Terry Nava

October 24, 2008

I, as many Calexicans, have many fond memories of Willie. Willie was a gem like no one else. We traveled to Hawaii a while back and my goodness was she a blast to be around with. She kept the group together and always kept us laughing. I will forever remember her humor, her kindness and that special sparkle that she had. Until we meet again Willie and my prayers go out to the Padilla family.

Gregory Smith

October 24, 2008

Sad to hear Willie Padilla has passed away. As a kid growing up in Calexico in the 1960's the Fox Theater was a center point in the city and she was always their with a warm smile and had nice things to say to anyone. In those days I would never had called her Willie it was always Miss Padilla. I will always remember her beauty and grace with her sense of humor. Her neice Yvonne was my classmate and I know Yvonne will miss her Aunt Willie and my thoughts and prayers are with the family. The city has lost a true icon and she will always be remembered.

Greg S. Smith
Lodi, CA

Romi & George Gutierrez

October 23, 2008

Willie truly was a legend of Calexico and has left deep impressions on everyone she met and knew. I will always remember her sense of humor, her interest in wanting to know what you were up to, and enthusiasm in sharing what she was up to or had done in the past. She will be missed by everyone, but remembered in our hearts.
As others have said, Willie is having a ball up in heaven and being welcomed with open arms. She lived a long full life and that should be celebrated. Much love to all the Padilla Family.

Veronica Sustaita (Garcia)

October 22, 2008

Willie, I will miss you dearly. I will always remember your stories and your loving ways. Rest in Peace my friend.

Veronica Sustaita

Melissa Sander

October 22, 2008

You will always be remembered and loved

Annette Montano Ramirez

October 22, 2008

Willie, a true legend of Calexico, you will be miss imensly, you loved to laugh, enjoy life to its fullest, and know everything about everybody. Now, you are at peace, and your up there in heaven getting to know everyone and wanting to know everything about them, and they, enjoying your presence. I am sure, heaven is having a ball in your honor.

Dominique Barnet

October 22, 2008

Willie was one of those few people that transcended age and time-everytime I was with her I felt like no past decade was too long ago. Her stories brought my family's history alive and allowed me to truly understand where I came from. I will miss her friendship but I am thankful for the time I had with her.

Gabriella Enciso

October 22, 2008

Willie your timeless advice and wit was what made you such a dear friend to all generations. I am truely sad that I did not say goodbye but I will always rememeber how special were to me as well as my family. Willie we love you and hold such dear,funny and fond memories of you, you are truely and always will be a legend in Calexico.

Nicole Steele

October 22, 2008

Aunt Willie was an amazing woman. From the time I was a little girl she has always made me laugh! I wish I was able to visit her more often. We will miss her. Nicole and Cody Steele, and our children.

Trinidad Diaz

October 22, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort. I so loved Willie, a dear friend, I as she, have fond memories of our travels together. A Mass in her memory will be celebrated at San Diego Mission De Alcala.

Debbie Padilla

October 21, 2008

Aunt Willie was a special person. She always kept me laughing. She was 89 years old, but had a mind of a 25 year old. She could sit and talk to anyone of any age and they'd going away saying "Wow, she's a really cool lady!" I will miss her dearly. God Bless you Willie.

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