Altagracia Mendoza

Altagracia Mendoza was born on January 5, 1933, in San Luis, Mexico, to Hermeregildo Aguilar and Delfina Salazar. Her early life was marked by hardship when her father passed away at the age of 37, leaving her mother a widow to care for seven children. At just eight years old, Altagracia began working as a servant, an experience that taught her gratitude, resilience, and appreciation for life's simple blessings.

From a young age, Altagracia devoted herself to helping others. As a young woman, she taught children in her small village of San José Alburquerque how to read. She had a special love for children and delighted them with the many songs she knew. During her twenties, she earned a certificate in cosmetology, demonstrating her determination to continue learning and growing.

At the age of 35, she married José Natividad Mendoza. In 1970, he brought her to the small town of Jefferson, Oregon, where she made her home for the rest of her life. Altagracia worked for 26 years at Norpac Foods and became an active member of PCUN, advocating for farmworkers and their families.

Known to many simply as "Alta," she lived a humble and meaningful life. She found joy in sewing, knitting, crocheting, singing, and listening to music. More than anything, she cherished her family and the relationships she built throughout her life.

She is survived by her two daughters, Maria Cristina Mendoza and Maria de Lourdes Aguilar-Ventura; her grandchildren, Jasmin Serpas, Blaize Guerra, Xochitl Konchar, and Anthony Correa; and many extended family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her beloved grandson, Gabriel Correa, whom she now joins in eternal peace.

Altagracia will be remembered for her unwavering faith in God, her generosity, and the wisdom she freely shared with others. One of her final pieces of advice reflected the faith that guided her throughout her life:

"God is on earth, in the sky, and everywhere. Remember, if you are ever in a difficult situation, ask God, and He will listen. I have faith in God." — Altagracia Mendoza

Her love, strength, and faith will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.