With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved matriarch, Esthela C. Avilez, who peacefully entered eternal rest on January 20, 2025. Surrounded by the love of her family, Esthela's memory will be cherished by all who knew her.

Born on May 13, 1933, in El Bajío, Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Esthela's life was a testament to love, resilience, and generosity. She was the devoted wife of Pvt. Guadalupe V. Avilez, a proud World War II veteran who served with honor as a rifleman in the infantry. Guadalupe's valor earned him the European Theatre Ribbon with three battle stars, the Combat Infantryman Badge, and the Good Conduct Ribbon. Together, Esthela and Guadalupe built a beautiful life, raising 11 children and cultivating a legacy rooted in love, strength, and family.

A proud entrepreneur, Esthela was an inspiring example of determination and creativity. She poured her heart into her work and uplifted others with her success. Known for her boundless kindness and warm spirit, Esthela had a unique gift for making everyone feel welcome and loved. Whether through her wisdom, her guidance, or her helping hand, she touched countless lives with compassion and grace.

Esthela treasured her roots and often shared stories of her upbringing in Mazatlán, where her values of hard work and family first took shape. She found joy in teaching her family the principles of running a business and creating lasting memories around the dinner table. Her presence radiated warmth, and her love was felt in every moment shared with her family.

She took immense pride in her grandchildren, celebrating their every achievement, especially those who chose to serve their country in the military, following in her husband's honorable footsteps. Her great-grandson, currently stationed in the UK, carries forward the family's values of courage and service. The family's strength and unity were further tested and fortified by the tragic loss of Esthela's beloved son, George Higinio Avilez, who also served in the military and was stationed in Okinawa, Japan, at the time of his passing.

Esthela is survived by her 10 Avilez and Cañedo children, her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and an extended family that will continue to honor her memory and uphold her legacy. She was preceded in death by her husband, Guadalupe Avilez; her parents, Domingo Cañedo and Victoria Estrada; her son, George Higinio Avilez; and her five sisters and two brothers.

A celebration of Esthela's incredible life will be held on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at Saint Augustine Cathedral in downtown Tucson, 192 S. Stone Avenue Tucson, AZ 85701 beginning at 10:00 AM. Family and friends are warmly invited to join us in commemorating her remarkable legacy and the love she shared with the world.

Dearest Esthela, your strength, kindness, and unwavering love will forever be a guiding light for our family. Though you will be deeply missed, we take solace in knowing you are reunited with your beloved Guadalupe, George, your parents, and your siblings. May you rest in eternal peace, knowing the love you gave will continue to live on in our hearts forever.