Alicia C. Laos

Alicia C. Laos, a cherished matriarch and beloved friend, passed away peacefully on Mexican Mother's Day on May 10, 2025, in Tucson, Arizona, at the age of 95. Born on November 23, 1929, in Twin Buttes, Arizona, Alicia spent her life surrounded by the warmth of family and the vibrancy of friendship.

Alicia was a proud graduate of Tucson High School, a testament to her enduring spirit and determination. Her career reflected her strong work ethic and commitment to excellence; she dedicated many years as an office manager at the Ramada Inn and Cele Peterson, an exclusive women's apparel store downtown. Later, she embraced a nurturing role as the house mother at Merilac Lodge, where she shared her wisdom and warmth with those around her.  She always loved fashion, wearing bright colors, high heels and her signature red lipstick.

Among her proudest accomplishments, Alicia and her late husband, Hector E. Laos, served as the leaders of the Legion of Mary at St. Frances Cabrini Church, embodying their devotion to faith and community. She fostered connections and built a legacy that transcends generations.

Alicia's personality shone brightly in all her relationships. As the last of her siblings and the Castro family line, she was a beloved aunt and grandmother whose reserved nature belied a spirited zest for life. She enjoyed dry martinis with a shot of olives on the side and reading mysteries. Alicia found joy in the simplest pleasures: music, dancing, and sharing her culinary creations. She cherished taking care of her grandchildren. She was famous for her Sunday taco dinners, which brought family together, filling hearts and bellies alike. Her talent in embroidery turned everyday items like dishcloths and pillowcases into treasured pieces of art, showcasing her creative spirit.

After marrying Hector in 1971 they purchased a motor home and made many trips to Rosarita Beach in Sonora Mexico along with her brother Bill Castro and his wife Virginia. 

She leaves behind a loving family, including her children, Elda Camacho Lopez, Edward Downs (Marta), and Tony Downs; her treasured grandchildren, Michael Zimmerman (Christina), Casey Camacho, Emily Lopez, Noah Lopez, Zachary Downs, and Tess Lyn Downs Poe (Kyle); as well as her great-grandchildren, Elise Martinez, Sierra Camacho, Madison Camacho, Andy Camacho, Easton Poe, Waylon Poe and Hector’s children and grandchildren, who affectionately called her Nana, as well as many nieces, nephews and friends. 

Alicia was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Hector, her son Martin Camacho, and her beloved siblings: Guillermina Alvarez, Amalia Cota, Eva Pain, Lupe Siliceo, Rafaela Danbocker, Bill Castro, Leon Castro, and Alex Castro. As her spirit joins those who have gone before her, her gentle strength and enduring love will continue to inspire those she leaves behind.

Alicia C. Laos will be profoundly missed and forever cherished by all whose lives she touched. Her legacy will live on through the laughter, memories, and meals shared among family and friends, in the heartwarming stories passed down through generations, and in the love she so selflessly gave.

A Rosary and Mass will be scheduled for later this month at Our Lady of Fatima Parish, 1950 W. Irvington Place, Tucson, Arizona. Please check back for date and time.