CARMEN COTA MARTINEZ

 We lovingly celebrate the beautiful life of our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother who passed away peacefully at the age of 96 surrounded by the love of her family. She lived a long and meaningful life filled with grace, strength, compassion, and unwavering devotion to those she loved most.

Born into a world much different than today’s, she carried wisdom, resilience and kindness through every chapter of her life. She was the heart of our family- someone whose warmth made every person feel welcomed, comforted, and deeply loved. Whether through her stories, humor, gentle advice, or acts of care, she created lasting memories that will remain with us forever.

She is survived by her loving children: Julia Quintero Villa, Santiago Cota Tafolla Jr., Cathy Tafolla Castillo, and Joseph Cota Tafolla: grandchildren Sylvia Villa-Valdez, Jose A. Castillo Sr., Albert V. Villa Jr., Andrea C. Nieto, Alice F. Rossa-Verley, Sofia C. Macias, Santiago C. Tafolla III, Armando Villa, Aimie F. Tafolla-Horvath, Joseph Tafolla Jr., Henry Castillo, Natalie Tafolla, 37 great-grandchildren and 10 great-great-grandchildren as well as extended family, and dear friends who will continue to honor her memory and carry her love forward. Though she will be deeply missed, we are grateful for the many years, lessons, and beautiful moments we were blessed to share her. Her spirit and her love will forever live in our hearts.

Visitation will be on Tuesday, June 2, 2026 from 6-8 pm in Grimes-Akes Family’s “Grace Chapel”, Corona, California.

Chapel Blessing will be on Wednesday, June 3, 2026 at 10 am in Grimes-Akes Family’s “Grace Chapel”, Corona, California with burial to follow at Corona Sunnyslope Cemetery at 11:30 am.

Arrangements entrusted to the care of Grimes-Akes Family Funeral Home, Corona, California.

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