Rachel Priscilla Calderon

Rachel was born on September 14, 1936, and joined our Lord in Heaven at the age of 87. She was born in Phoenix, Arizona to Alberto and Maria Godinez. She attended Sierra Vista School and later went on to Phoenix Union High School. Rachel’s father introduced her to Jose Luis Calderon and he escorted her to her first high school dance. They were later united in marriage on June 23, 1955. Rachel and Jose Luis were proud parents of four children: Susie Gastelum, Louie Calderon, Themo Calderon, and Pebbles Calderon.

As a young girl, her parents signed her and her brother up to dance traditional Mexican Folklorico dances. She would perform throughout her teenage years. Her love for dance will be passed on for generations.

Rachel was very involved in all of the school events and projects for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She would crochet blankets as gifts and was a caretaker to many family members and close friends at the end of their journey here on Earth. Rachel was a natural caregiver and loved everyone unconditionally. She passed down many family traditions, including her Catholic faith, her love for cooking, and hosting family traditional events. She shared her love for cooking while running the family restaurant and bar, Mi Casa Su Casa, where Rachel was the co-owner and manager. Rachel was also employed for 11 years at Anacad Plating Company. Rachel worked double-time to support the American Dream. She was an incredible wife, sister, mother, aunt, and daughter. She was loving and caring with all her family and friends. Her sense of humor and laughter will be remembered by all that knew her. Rachel did not skip a beat, and always did everything she could to build a greater life for her children and all generations to follow.

Rachel was a beautiful soul and was so connected to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She loved to pass on the traditions even with the youngest of them all. The holidays will be honored with her special recipes, including the Christmas tamales, the family parties, and traditional music, with lots of dancing.

Our “Mamacita” could do it all; she was our hero. You will be missed. Rest in Heaven.

The service will be held on Friday, December 15, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. We will join together to celebrate Rachel’s life at Valley of the Sun Mortuary and Cemetery located at 10940 E Chandler Heights Rd, Chandler, AZ 85225.