Maria Candelaria Mendoza

With profound sadness but unwavering faith, we announce the passing of our precious mother, Maria Candelaria Mendoza, who was called home to be with the Lord on February 6, 2026, at the age of 57. Surrounded by her loving family, she entered eternal rest, comforted by the promises of Christ. Born on February 2, 1969, in Buena Vista, Michoacan, Maria Candelaria was a beacon of strength and compassion throughout her life. She dedicated herself wholeheartedly to her family, always placing others needs before her own. Her nurturing spirit and guidance shaped the lives of all who knew her. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her as a loving mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend. Maria Candelaria will be deeply missed by her children, Jose Lupercio, Angela Orozco, and Gladys Lupercio her grandchildren, Mercedes Lupercio, Isabella Lupercio, Ruben Mejia, Evelyn Lupercio, Darian Mejia, Melody Lupercio, Arayah Lupercio, Ariel Lupercio, Xiomara Orozco, and Arizbeth Orozco, her mother, Angela Sandoval, each of her siblings, her significant other Jose Martinez, and all those whose lives she touched. She was preceded in death by her beloved father, Tiodolo Mendoza. You could find her early in the morning working on her latest embroidery and cross stitch as she talked with her madresita. She had a green thumb for her indoor plants. In the summer she enjoyed taking the grandkids out to harvest her jitomates and tomatillos from the backyard garden. Maria was a hard worker who never shied away from responsibility. She was a woman of dignity, integrity, perseverance, and care, always putting her heart into providing for her family and helping others. We rejoice in the certain hope that she is with her Savior, and we are comforted by the words of John 11:25 “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die.” We are grateful for the precious memories and the unconditional love she gave us. She will be deeply missed and forever in our hearts.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Smith Funeral Home, Sunnyside, WA   Funeral Service will be on Thursday, February 12, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at the Foundation Bible Church 270 N. Gap RD.  Prosser, WA.  Burial will follow at the Grandview Cemetery.  Those wishing to sign Maria's online memorial book may do so at www.funeralhomesmith.com    Smith Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Maria Candelaria Mendoza, please visit our floral store.