Ofelia O. Villegas

Ofelia was born on August 2, 1934 in Parral Chihuahua, Mexico. She married her husband, Benito Villegas, on May 3, 1959. Together they raised their four children, in Santa Clara, New Mexico. Following her husband's passing in 2017, Ofelia moved to Phoenix, Arizona to be close to family. She lived with her daughter Cori and son-in-law Juan.

Ofelia owned and operated La Tiendita grocery store in Santa Clara for 38 years, where she built life-long relationships within her community. Ofelia loved her hometown and all of the people and “amistades” she made throughout the years. Ofelia had passion for helping people in her community. She was known for her generosity, her amazing humor and her witty personality. She had a way of not taking life seriously, and her humor and lightheartedness is a legacy that has carried on to her children and grandchildren.

If you knew Ofelia, you know she loved watching baseball. Since the early 70’s, her favorite team has been the New York Yankees. She could tell you every trade, every player, and just about every stat. Up until her passing, she’d watch up to three games a day.

Ofelia also enjoyed reading and studying God’s word and sharing her faith with others. Her strong faith influenced many people to rely on the Lord.

In Ofelia’s later years, she could be found talking on the phone for many hours of the day. She especially loved her daily conversations with her friend of many years, Queta Rodriguez.

Ofelia especially enjoyed family get togethers, where she’d get to spend quality time with her family. Ofelia was a loving and devoted wife, mother, mamá, sister, and friend. She had the most generous, loving heart, and always put others before herself. Ofelia was an active encourager for others, and through her presence and love, she impacted many people in her life and in her community. Ofelia’s life on earth was truly a gift.

Ofelia is survived by her 4 children, Laura Chavez (Ilde), Cori Medina (Juan), Benito Villegas Jr. (Jamie), and Richard Villegas (Donna), 8 Grandchildren, Diandra Gunning (Rick), JC Medina (Brittney), Brianna Foster (Michael), Ilianna Tanguay (Cameron), Kimberly Montero (Jesse), Samuel Villegas, Caleb Villegas and Andrew Villegas, 6 great grandsons, Ricky Gunning, Elijah Gunning, Prince Montero, River Tanguay, Bennett Foster and Rainier Medina.

A memorial service will held on October 2, 2023 at 10:30am at the following location:

Resthaven/Carr-Tenney Mortuary & Memorial Gardens

4310 E. Southern Avenue

Phoenix, Arizona 85042