Virginia Gonzales

Virginia Esther Gonzales (Verdugo), a cherished matriarch, devout woman of faith, and dedicated community member, passed away peacefully on October 6, 2025, just shy of her 101st birthday. She was 100 years and 11 months old. Virginia leaves behind a powerful legacy of love, faith, and family that spanned five generations.
Born on October 31, 1924, in Mesa, Arizona, Virginia was the daughter of the late Bruno and Guadalupe Verdugo. Her earliest years were spent in Sombrero Butte, where, in a touching testament to the strength of community, she started school at the age of five to ensure enough students for the one-room schoolhouse. At age six, she and her family moved to Mammoth, where she was a member of one of the original families of Mammoth.
Virginia's life was defined by service and strength. During World War II, at the age of 18, she proudly worked as a "Rosie the Riveter" at the Goodyear Plant in Phoenix, contributing to the war effort. Upon returning to Mammoth, she continued to work diligently at the Mammoth Post Office, Davis Groceries, and Barneys Grocery Store.
Above all, Virginia was the glue that kept her family together. Her enduring strength and commitment shone brightest in her marriage of 65 years to her beloved, the late Frank (Kiko) Gonzales.
A devout Catholic, Virginia dedicated countless hours to the Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church as a Catechism Teacher and a loyal Member of the Altar Society, instilling a deep and lasting love for God in her family and community.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Frank (Kiko) Gonzales; her parents; her son, Harold Ortiz; and four brothers and two sisters.
Virginia's love is carried on by her sons: Frank Gonzales, Bruno Gonzales (Grace), and Michael Gonzales (Gail). She was the proud grandmother of 11 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind a special family friends, Rosie and Jackie Marquez and countless nieces, nephews, and friends.
Virginia's long, impactful life will be forever remembered as a testament to faith, hard work, and the unwavering power of family.