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BORN
1934
DIED
2021
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Mary Jorajuria Obituary
April 27, 1934 - December 1, 2021
Mary Frances Auza Jorajuria, 87, of Tacna, AZ passed away on December 1, 2021 at home surrounded by her loved ones. Frances was born on April 27, 1934 in Flagstaff, AZ to Frank and Elsie Auza and was the oldest of eight children in a sheep ranching family.
Frances attended St. Anthony Catholic School and Flagstaff High School, where she graduated in 1953. After graduating high school she worked for Mountain Bell Telephone Company as a telephone switch-board operator.
She married Fidel Jorajuria, the love of her life in Flagstaff. They had two children Marie and Mike. In 1959, the family moved to Tacna from Casa Grande. Frances was a very active member of the Wellton-Mohawk Valley for over 60 years. She was the owner of the Basque Etchea Restaurant, which was family run, where she was seen daily for 40 years. Frances loved meeting and talking with people on a daily basis.
She is preceded in death by her husband Fidel of 60 years; her parents, Frank and Elsie Auza, her brother and sister in law, Frankie and Ann Auza; brothers Johnny Auza and George Auza; and great-niece Addison Auza.
Frances is survived by daughter Marie (Manuel) Rico, son Michael (Alicia) Jorajuria; grandchildren Jessica (Rob) Goodman of Chino Valley, Erik Rico, Howie (Amy) Jorajuria of Tacna; five great-grandchildren Cole and Ava Jorajuria and Lincoln Rico, Jackson and Arlo Goodman; brothers Joe (Carmen) Auza of Casa Grande; Pete (Joanie) Auza of Yuma; Martin (Shirley) Auza of Brawley, CA; sister Elsie (Ramon) Jorajuria of Tacna; and many nieces and nephews.
A Memorial Mass will be Wednesday, December 22 2021 at 10:30 am at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Wellton, AZ where friends and family will celebrate her life. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Wellton Mohawk Kiwanis Tacna Park, PO Box 441 Wellton, Arizona 85356
Arrangements by Johnson Mortuary.
Please sign the guestbook at www.legacy.com/obituaries/yumasun
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Memories and Condolences
for Mary Jorajuria
Sponsored by Johnson Mortuary & Desert Lawn Memorial Park.
Maria Trevizo (Peluda)
February 18, 2022
Wee, Michael, and Elsie. I'm sorry for your loss. I don't know where I would be if it wasn't for Frances. I will always be grateful for everything she did for me, for helping me in my worst times of my life and always being there for me. I loved working for you even though it was for only 3 years but I enjoyed every minute of it. All those times we traveled together to the INS in San Luis so I can get my U.S Residence she look like my Lawyer always carrying her big bag. I'll never forget those memories they'll forever stay in my heart along with you. I miss you so much!
Steve and Johnny biwman
December 20, 2021
Our thoughts and prayers to family
Scott Shill
December 20, 2021
In Loving Memory of Frances Jorajuria,
So many fond memories! Frances always spoke firmly and directly to you. After giving you the business you would see her warm smile.
Frances rest in peace!
Virginia Manterola
December 19, 2021
My sincere sympathy to all the families for your loss of a very caring person that loved life and her family. Always laughing. God bless. Virginia
Renae Canez
December 19, 2021
Frances was an amazing role model for me & she did her best to keep me out of trouble (successful most of the time). She taught me a lot about responsibility & to work hard. Frances made me feel like part of her family. I was blessed to work for her & have a lifelong friendship with her & her family. Be at peace.
Sarah Jaime
December 19, 2021
My Condolences to Marie, Michael, Elsie and the rest of the Family for Your loss. I really enjoyed working for Frances. Those who truly knew Frances knew She was a Kind, Loving, Intelligent, and Funny Lady. Frances is at peace now and with Fidel and Family. She will be greatly missed.
Sarah Jaime
December 19, 2021
My Sincere Condolences to Elsie, Marie and Michael and the rest of the Family. Frances mentioned a lot to me and I enjoyed working for her and listening to her. Those who truly knew Frances, knew how Kind, Loving, Intelligent and Funny She was. Frances is at peace now and with Fidel. She will be greatly missed.
Wade Ramsey Family
December 19, 2021
Frances was a wonderful part of the valley. She will be missed. Our sincere condolences to your family.
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Johnson Mortuary & Desert Lawn Memorial Park1415 South 1st Ave, Yuma, AZ 85364
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