Jonaira Marie Castro

It's really hard to put someone's life into words, and even harder to say goodbye. On October 1, 2025, heaven gained one of its funniest, most beautiful angels - Jonaira Marie Castro, lovingly known as "Yaya" or "Jo," at the young age of 25.

Jonaira was born on May 28, 2000, to her parents Irene Jimenez and Amado Miguel Castro Roman. She was the oldest of four siblings - Jonaira, Ailina, Miguel, and Jimena - and took her role as big sister to heart.

Jonaira spent her childhood in Brawley and Calipatria, California, where she made lifelong friends and was the protector of her siblings and cousins. She was known as the "main chicken" out of the bunch - the first granddaughter, sister, niece, and cousin within her close-knit family. If you knew Jonaira, you knew all her siblings and cousins, because their bond was unbreakable. Her cousins Reyana, Jocelyn, Joseph, and Jazmyn Sanchez all looked up to her, and she loved them deeply in return.

As a teenager, Jonaira moved to Antioch, California, where she attended middle and high school. She found joy and friendship through soccer and softball, where her lively spirit and humor quickly drew people to her. Known as "the funniest person you know," Jonaira could make anyone laugh until their stomach hurt. She lit up every room she entered and had a gift for making others feel loved and understood. Her laughter was contagious, and her heart was pure.

Jonaira was down to do anything - she was adventurous and always up for new experiences. One of her favorite things to do was go to the beach with her kids, where she found peace and happiness. She loved going on car rides with the music blasting through her speakers, trying new food spots, and making everyone around her laugh. She lived life with joy and spontaneity, creating memories that those who loved her will hold close forever.

In 2019, Jonaira's life became even more beautiful when she welcomed her daughter, Xitlali Rose Cuevas, followed by her son, Cesar Manuel Cuevas, in 2021. Motherhood was the most important and fulfilling part of her life. She was a devoted, loving mom whose world revolved around her children. Every song she knew, her kids knew. Every joke she made, they laughed. Every accomplishment she achieved, they were right by her side. Her love for them was endless and unconditional.

Jonaira was also incredibly hardworking and determined. In 2024, she proudly became a first-generation college graduate, earning her degree in medical studies - a testament to her drive and dedication to building a better future for her family. She loved helping others every chance she got and always did so with a full heart.Jonaira will forever be remembered for her humor, her strength, her love for her family, and her beautiful spirit. She touched the lives of everyone she met and leaves behind memories that will be cherished forever.

She is survived by her beloved children, Xitlali and Cesar; her parents; siblings; cousins;aunt and uncle; grandparents; and countless family and friends who loved her beyond words.

Though our hearts are shattered, we take comfort in knowing that Yaya's light will continue to shine through her children and the many lives she touched.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Higgins Chapel, located in Antioch, California (94509). Family and friends are welcome to attend and share memories of our beloved Yaya.

Forever loved, forever missed, and never forgotten.