Monica Julie Escalante

Monica Julie Escalante, a beloved daughter, mother, partner, sister, grandmother and friend, passed away on April 4, 2025, at the age of 47. Born on March 25, 1978, in Yuma, Monica lived a life full of love, laughter, and countless memories that will forever linger in the hearts of those who knew her.

Monica was a beacon of kindness and thoughtfulness, always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Her sweet and gentle nature left a mark on her community, and her legacy will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her. Monica’s hobbies were baking, off-roading, beading, sewing and crafting. Her career in Yuma County was a testament to her dedication and commitment, but her greatest achievement was undoubtedly the love she shared with her family.

Preceded in death by her father, Ruben Alvarez, and her grandparents, Carmen (Carmelo) & Beatrice Limones, & Jose and Ofelia Alvarez, Monica leaves behind a family that adored her. She is survived by her loving mother, Rosemary Alvarez; her cherished children, Aimee Ortiz, Luis, Cesar, and Zuriel Alvarez; her devoted partner, Morales Escalante; her two grandchildren Sebastian Ortiz, Mariana Alvarez; her siblings, Carmelo, Junior, Jose, Betty, and Veronica Alvarez; and mother-in-law Tessy Escalanti.

Monica's life will be celebrated through a series of services. On Friday, April 11th, 2025, a Big House Native Ceremony will be held from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at 1877 Picacho Road, Winterhaven, CA. Later that day, a viewing will take place from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Johnson Memorial, 1415 S 1st Ave, Yuma, AZ. On Saturday, April 12th, a Church Mass will begin at 10:00 AM at Immaculate Conception, followed by a graveside burial at 11:00 AM at Desert Lawn Memorial Park.

As we gather to remember Monica, we find solace in these words:

1 Thessalonians 4:13-14, “And now dear brothers and sisters, we want you to know what will happen to the believers who have died* so you will not grieve like people who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and was raised to life again, we also believe that when Jesus returns, God will bring back with him the believers who have died.”

Psalm 34:18, “The lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those who’s spirits are crushed.”

Monica’s spirit will forever be with us, a guiding light of love and faith.