Estella Mendoza Valencia

Estella Mendoza Valencia, age 64, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2017 after a long struggle with cancer. She passed away at her Bakersfield home with her family by her side. Estella was born in Fresno, CA to Maria de Jesus Villalobos and Fancisco Mendoza on October 4, 1952. As the oldest child of nine, Estella settled into her role as the strong, hardworking and selfless older sister at an early age; character traits that carried with her throughout her life. She attended public schools in California as well as in Mexico; however, she delayed her education to assist at home. In her adult life, Estella worked hard to return to school. She was acknowledged as the top student in several of her classes and graduated with her GED in 1995. Estella enjoyed working. She handled issues head on and hated to leave unsettled business for tomorrow that she knew she could get done today. She owned and operated Sarita's Fashions in Lamont for over seven years and was later employed with Olympus Property as office manager until her passing in 2017. No one who met Estella Valencia forgot her strong will and caring personality. Her touch left an impression on all she came in contact with. The selfless love that she has given us all will carry on forever. Estella is survived by husband, Jesus Valencia; children, Ezequiel, Nick, Jesse and Sarah Valencia; grandchildren: Ezequiel, David, Andrew, Adrian, and Elias Valencia; mother, Maria de Jesus Villalobos; and siblings.

The Family would like to thank Basham Funeral Care and Gentiva Hospice for their assistance through this process. Special thanks go out to Chandler Wonderly and Bill Wonderly from Olympus Property for their love and support.

Visitation will be Thursday, July 20th, from 4PM to 9PM at the Basham-Lamont Funeral Care located at 8601 Hall Road, Lamont, CA (Rosary will begin at 7PM). A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday 21st, at 10AM at San Augustine Catholic Church located at 10601 Myrtle Avenue, Lamont, CA. Burial will follow shortly after at Arvin Cemetery located at 15543 S. Vineland Road. For those that would like to join, food and refreshments will be provided at 13136 South H Street at 12:30PM.

In lieu of flowers or donations, we ask that you take a moment to show your gratitude and appreciation to the strong women in your life.