Sylvia L Naranjo

It is with heavy heart that we announce the passing of Sylvia L. Naranjo, who peacefully left this world on November 13, 2023, at the age of seventy-eight.

Sylvia was born in Buena Vista, Arizona on April 21, 1945. She was predeceased by her father, Pascual Lopez, her mother, Elena Lopez, her sister, Maria L Rhinehart (Lulu), and her granddaughter, Erinn R. Naranjo. She is lovingly remembered by her daughters, Sherrie Kline, Steve Kline, Tucson AZ, Denise Wiebers, Tucson AZ, and her son, Richard Naranjo, Tucson AZ. Sylvia was blessed with thirteen grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and many cousins and nieces and nephews . She is also lovingly remembered by her sisters, Ophelia Molina, Oliva Abeyta, Rachal Verdugo, and Felicita Chavez (Lita).

Sylvia attended Fort Thomas High School and Safford High School, where she excelled in various academic pursuits, including contributing to her high school yearbook, participating in spelling bees, and receiving several academic awards. After graduating, she moved to Tucson, Arizona, where she began her career at Davis Monthan Airforce Base in March 1973. Sylvia dedicated 32 years of her life as a federal civilian employee with the United States Air Force, serving in various roles such as Commissary, Hospital Nursing - OBGYN, and Materials Handler specializing in military aircraft storage. She took great pride in her work, especially during the base's War Games, where she played a crucial role as a messenger, passing top-secret information to the involved teams.

Upon retiring in January 2006, Sylvia received a certificate of retirement from The Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Center, AMRC, as well as several honorable certificates, including one from the City of Tucson, presented by Mayor Robert E Walkup. She also received a letter from the White House, signed by President George Bush and Laura Bush, congratulating her on her retirement and thanking her for her service.

Sylvia continued her journey by working at the San Xavier Mission Del Bac, a 219-year-old church that she held dear to her heart. She obtained her certificate to be a Eucharistic Minister and cherished the opportunity to meet people from all over the world. Her Mondays were spent in group meetings, where she would eagerly inquire about Jesus and share her knowledge with others. Her guiding advice was always, "Just pray on it, give it to God"... "God makes no mistakes".

Later, Sylvia moved to a gated retirement community that embraced her and provided support during her transition to full retirement. She enjoyed gatherings at the community center and cherished the time spent with her new friends. Sylvia attended church daily at Saint Francis de Sales Parish. She was not only a hard worker but also a dedicated mother who raised three children single-handedly. Her greatest pride was in her grandchildren, and she never missed a birthday or any other important event, Sylvia had a caring and giving nature, always ready to lend a helping hand. She was a true caregiver at heart and will forever be remembered as our guardian angel.

Sylvia faced the loss of her mother at a young age, which deepened the bond she shared with her five sisters. Together, they formed an unbreakable connection, whether playing cards, making tamales, or embracing the digital age through text and social media.

Sylvia was a loving grandmother who shared a special bond with her grandson, Joshua Naranjo. They supported and cared for each other, and he held a special place in her heart.

Sylvia loved her sports, she supported her favorite athletes, and she found inspiration in the talents of Tiger Woods, Nancy Lopez, Phil Mickelson, Chris Everett, and Fernando Valenzuela. She proudly cheered on the U of A and the Arizona Cardinals.

She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Rest in eternal peace, Sylvia. Your memory will always be cherished by those whose lives you touched.