Stella McGaha
May 9, 1923 ~ October 13, 2003
Resided in:
Pueblo, CO
Stella McGaha, 80, passed away October 13, 2003, in Pueblo, Colorado. Survived by her children, Raymond (Rita) Jacobs, Rosemary Jacobs both of Seaside, California, David (Sharon) Jacobs of Watsonville, California, Eileen Choate, Nancy (Emil) Romero, Charles (Elaine) Jacobs, Maureen (Eddie) Gomez, Alicia (Maclovio, Jr.) Martinez and Brian Algien, all of Pueblo, and Monica Abbas (Anthony Gonzales) of Las Vegas, Nevada; grandchildren, Lisa (Jose) Hernandez, Richard, Michael, Becky, and Jennifer Jacobs, David (Eloise) Davila, Cyndi (Vincent) Iglesias, Yvette (Larry) Oblander, Christine (Jaime) Gorales, Monica (Thomas) McDonald, David Allen Jacobs, Eddie (Diana) Romero, Felicia (Paul, Jr.) Bueno, Anna (Dennis) Rivera, Shirell Jacobs, Keila (Johnathan) Jacobs-Hathaway, Phillip (Erica) Gomez, Andrew Gomez, Kendra Martinez (Jesse Baca), Nick White, Brandi and Ashley Martinez, Ghassan Al-Hilal, Aaron Gonzales (Nicole McCain), and Nathan Gonzales (Desiree Sandoval); 40 great grandchildren; 1 great-great grandchild; and sister, Rose Valdez. Also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, other family members and wonderful friends. Preceded in death by her first husband, Sam Jacobs, Jr.; second husband, Charles McGaha; parents, James and Lucy Armijo; her grandmother who raised her, Cleofas Quintana Read; and brothers, John and Benny Armijo. Stella was born May 9, 1923, in Arboles, Colorado and was a descendant of George Read, who was one of the original signers of the Declaration of Independence. She was one of the founding members of Las Hermanas and Van Ministries at Holy Family Catholic Church. She was happy to make her Cursillo on February 8, 1981. Stella grew up in Walsenburg, Colorado. She lost both of her parents at the young age of 16 and married Sam Jacobs in the same year. Stella resided in the Monterey Bay, California area for many years of her life, which she loved and spoke of frequently. She was a factory worker in the sardine canneries of Cannery Row and Fisherman's Wharf. Living in the Bay area presented some of the most challenging and fondest memories of her life. Stella moved to Pueblo in 1962. She encouraged education and her love of reading to everyone. Stella loved to sing, take long walks and listen to music, especially the Big Band Era. She always looked for the good in people and encouraged kindness and forgiveness. She was a devout Catholic who believed in the power of prayer and held a special place in her heart for Sister Alice, Sister DeChantel and Father Woodward. Stella's greatest love was for her children, and especially her grandchildren. Her eyes and smile illuminated when they walked into a room. She showered them with hugs and kisses and called them her precious angels. Stella loved to cook and was known for her cinnamon rolls, peach cobbler and delicious tortillas. She never wanted anyone to leave her house hungry. Stella will be deeply missed by all who knew her and whose lives she touched. Heaven has gained one of its Greatest Angels. We Love You Mama! Viewing will be from 10 AM to 4 PM Wednesday, October 15, 2003, at the funeral home. Rosary will be held 6 PM Wednesday, October 15, 2003, and Funeral Mass will be held 10 AM, Thursday, October 16, 2003, both at Holy Family Church, 2827 Lakeview, with Reverend Father Jesse Perez as celebrant. Interment will follow at Mountain View Cemetery. Online condolences, www.montgomerysteward.com
She was a wonderful and joyous women. Always had a smile and was so very good natured. She opened her home and heart to me. Her legacy and spirit has left a very positive mark on all those she touched. She will be missed here but welcomed among the angels in heaven.
Our heart goes to our dear cousins, grieve not for she is looking down at you with a smile and has gone to live in the Kingdom, with our Almighty Father.
Auntie, Although we are unable to go, you will always be in our hearts. We will cherish the wonderful memories you have blessed us with. Love Dave & Priscilla
Dearest Monica,
I would like to offer my condolences to you and your family. I was so very sorry to hear about your loss. May the Lord be with you and your family. Please E-Mail me. I would like to hear from you. Your friend, Esther
Your mom was my getaway from home. I loved going over and helping her. Sometimes I’d only get halfway across the street before my mom would call me back. But I enjoyed the times I made it across. My prayers and thoughts are with you.