Obituaries

Elia is survived by her husband Jesus, and five children, Natalia, Monica, Celeste, Jasmin and Jesus Jr, and family dog Koketa.

Born to José and Juana Perez, Elia was raised in Newark. She was one of 8 children, and was a graduate from Newark Memorial High School. As a young woman Elia loved to dance, and would frequent local dances. This is how she met the person who would become her husband, Jesus. In 1986 they got married at St. Edwards Catholic Church on her 21st birthday.

Elia was married for 36 years, and in that time, she birthed 5 children who love her dearly. As a mother and wife, she gave her family all that she could. She enjoyed taking her children to concerts and shows, providing them protection, chaperoning for field trips, volunteering at their schools, supporting each of their creative endeavors and expressions, and so much more. Elia was a lover of music and an excellent craftswoman when it came to crocheting, sewing, and scrapbooking, all things she would teach and pass on to her children.

Those who knew Elia, knew her as a kind, spit-fire, and a radiant woman. She was a woman who wore her heart on her sleeve, and would give anything for those she cared for. She was a fighter and warrior who fought every day to be the best woman, mother and wife she could be. With her amazing smile, infectious laugh, and sense of humor,

Elia was one that could bring a smile to every person she met, even through hard times. Some of her favorite things include Pepsi, ice cream, flan, chinese food, the color maroon, lilies, and soap operas.

Elia was a beautiful woman, that was so smart, funny, and clever, and she is greatly missed.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 9th from 5-8pm with Vigil Service starting at 6:30pm at Fremont Memorial Chapel, 3723 Peralta Blvd., Fremont, CA. She will be honored at St. Edwards Church, 5788 Thornton Ave., Newark, CA on Friday, March 10th at 10:30am.