Eleanor Villagomez

Her name was Eleanor Villagomez, but she liked to be called Noni. She was born into a family so unlike many traditional families. Her mother had six other children to care for when she arrived; Lala, Carmen, Rodrigo, Chano, Juanita and Jessie. She was the youngest and the wildest.

She often talked of her childhood, moving from place to place following the seasons. Her mother, Thomasita, did everything she could to provide for them, even having to travel on her own, leaving the older siblings to care for the younger ones. That’s how it was back then, and if you have ever known this hardship you understand, it is a hardship that nurtures love, compassion, and family.

She strived to embodied those lessons. She lived with a truly open, giving, and caring heart. I’m so very lucky to have had her, and her beautiful soul, for my Momma.

She will join her sisters and two of her brothers on the other side. There is one brother that is still with us, and he is a treasure to our family. Rodrigo, we keep you in our hearts and our thoughts. My Momma would want you to know she loves you very much, and don’t be in any rush to be with them.

Noni loved her children and grandchildren and those extended children that came in the form of friends to those children and grandchildren. She welcomed them into her heart and made a place for each of them.

She was always forgiving, no matter the circumstances, and she welcomed everybody inside her home with a smile and an offer of coffee. She was always helping and thinking of others. I know love will follow her into the afterlife.

Our family’s guardian angel, Noni.