Teresa Perez's Obituary
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Teresa Perez, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and cherished friend. Surrounded by her loving family, Teresa passed away peacefully on January 3, 2025, at the age of 86.
Born Teresita de Jesus de Plata-Valdés on September 16, 1938, in Mexico City, D.F., her story is one of resilience and strength. As the eldest of two brothers, one sister, three step-sisters, and six step-brothers, she embraced the role of protector and nurturer early in life. While living in Mexico, she married the love of her life, Felipe Perez, and together they welcomed two daughters. Driven by dreams of a brighter future, Teresa and Felipe embarked on a courageous journey to the United States, settling in San Bernardino, California. There, they grew their family with the addition of four children—three daughters and one son—completing their family of six children.
As a homemaker, Teresa’s life passion was serving her family. She instilled in her children the values of hard work, kindness, and perseverance. Her home was forever a sanctuary of love, warmth, and generosity. Anyone who stepped through her door felt her love and enjoyed the food she crafted with care.
Teresa embraced every opportunity to better herself by learning English through experience and education. She pursued her interests in floral design and baking, taking classes to refine her skills. Her beautiful cakes were the heart of family birthdays and celebrations, and her floral creations added beauty to countless special moments. Even in her later years, her creativity knew no bounds—she transformed simple paper into beautiful flowers, sharing her artistry and love with those around her until her very last days.
Never one to slow down, Teresa joined the Target team with enthusiasm, where her warmth and charm helped her form lasting friendships. She retired in the late 1990s, fondly recalling the memories she made with her colleagues—and the perks of employee discounts. In her retirement, she embraced a life of adventure, whether traveling with family and friends or taking solo bus trips to the casino. Her favorite saying, “Vamos a ver” or “Let’s go see,” prompted anyone with her to explore unexpected, exciting places, even if it meant stepping past a “No Trespassing” sign. Her boldness inspired her grandchildren, teaching them to face life’s challenges with curiosity, courage, and confidence. Every adventure with Teresa left those who joined her with smiles on their faces and hearts full of joy.
Teresa is preceded in death by her sister, Racquel Plata Valdéz (1944-2004), her brother, José Luis Plata Valdez (1940-2008), and her husband, Felipe (1936-2008). She is survived by her six children, 13 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, her brother and step-siblings, each of whom carries a piece of her love and compassion in their hearts.
In honor of Teresa Perez, let us carry forward her legacy of courage, kindness, and love. For those fortunate enough to have known her, our lives are forever enriched.
Viewing for Teresa will be from 5:00pm to 9:00pm on Tuesday, January 28, 2025 at Preciado Funeral Home, 923 W. Mill Street, San Bernardino, California. Funeral Mass will be at 10:00am on Wednesday, January 29, 2025 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, 1430 5th Street, San Bernardino, California. Teresa will be laid to rest thereafter at 11:30am at Montecito Memorial Park, 3520 E. Washington Street, Colton, California
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