Henrietta Meraz Zamaripa

Henrietta Meraz Zamaripa, a cherished matriarch and beloved member of the Fillmore community, passed away peacefully on June 18, 2026, at the age of 91. Henrietta was born on October 9, 1934, in Fillmore, California, to Luis Escamilla and Aurora Trujillo. Her life was a beautiful tapestry woven with love, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to her family and community. Henrietta's journey through life was one filled with warmth and compassion. She dedicated herself to the service of others, working for many years as a house cleaner and later as a teacher's assistant at San Cayetano School in Fillmore. Her gentle guidance and nurturing spirit left a lasting impact on the countless young lives she touched. Henrietta was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband Andy Zamaripa, her son Ben Meraz, and her grandson Dustin Meraz. Despite these profound losses, her resilience was evident in the enduring love she shared with her surviving family. She leaves behind her sons Daniel Meraz and Dave Meraz (Trish), who carry forward her legacy of kindness and family devotion. Her grandchildren, Christine Roman (Vince), Veronica Meraz, Benjamin Meraz (Judy), Aaron Meraz (Nicole), Christi Threadgill (Tyler), and David Tyler Meraz, as well as her brother Lupe Garcia and sister Rosa Rodriguez, will forever remember her as a pillar of strength and love. Henrietta’s legacy also extends to her 13 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren, who brought her immense joy. A talented cook, Henrietta’s kitchen was a haven for family gatherings, where her delicious meals became the cornerstone of countless cherished memories. Her culinary skills were matched only by her love for her birds, including lovebirds, finches, and parrots, whom she cared for with great affection. Henrietta’s family fondly remembers her welcoming nature. Upon visiting her home, no grandchild ever left hungry, whether they arrived with an appetite or not. Her ability to make everyone feel at home and cared for was a testament to her generous spirit. Viewing will be Monday from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Perez Family Funeral Home, 600 Central Avenue, Fillmore. A funeral service to celebrate Henrietta’s life will be held on July 21, 2026, at 10:30 p.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic Church, located at 1048 West Ventura Street, Fillmore, followed by burial at Bardsdale Cemetery. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Mabie Northside Skilled Nursing Facility in Hollister for the exceptional care and compassion they provided Henrietta during her time with them. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions in Henrietta’s memory be made to a charity of your choice, as a tribute to her life of giving and service. Henrietta’s kindness, wisdom, and love will forever remain in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known her.