Utilia 'Tillie' Marie Fernandez's Obituary
Our beloved mother, grandmother & friend Utilia (Tillie) Marie Fernandez passed away while surrounded by her loving family on February 18th 2024. Tillie was born on September 19th 1933 in El Rito, New Mexico to Agapito and Juanita Archuleta. Married John Anthony Fernandez and together they raised 5 children. Tillie was a devout Catholic and taught CCD for 25 years at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church preparing students to receive Holy Communion. She provided endless hours of service to her church. She taught us integrity, work ethic & the importance of faith and family. She worked at Western Foods as an Event Manager for over 35 years.
Tillie was a wonderful cook, who not only nourished bodies but also warmed hearts. With each dish crafted, the aroma of love and generosity filled the air. She made the best salsa, tortillas and fried potatoes. Her door was always open, welcoming all with open arms and ensuring no soul departed with an empty stomach. Her family & friends looked forward to her annual Christmas Eve dinner and going to Midnight Mass.
Our beloved mother was a woman of grace and style. She cherished the simple pleasures of life, finding joy in the little things like getting her hair and nails done. She had a knack for always looking impeccable, with her favorite red lipstick shade and matching earrings completing her ensemble.
She is survived by her daughters and son Jeanette Coburn, Juanita (Bill) Meske, Larry (Joyce) Fernandez as well as 9 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren & 2 great great grandchildren. Also survived by sister Sara Newman.
Preceded in death by her parents and loving husband John and two sons Jay & Anthony, foster son Elmer and granddaughter Alyssa. Brothers, Ronald & Joe and sisters Virginia & Susie.
A viewing will be held on Friday, February 23rd from 6:00-8:00 PM with prayer of the Rosary at 7:00 PM at Neil O'Donnell Funeral Home, 372 East 100 South Salt Lake City. A Funeral Mass will be Celebrated on Saturday, February 24th at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church 715 West 300 North Salt Lake City. Interment will follow at Mount Calvary Catholic Cemetery.
The family would like to give special thanks for the wonderful care given by Legacy House of Park Lane, and the touching Hospice care by Ovation, Jenn, Courtney,Tiffany & Anna and personalized care from her granddaughter Tracy and great-granddaughter Hailey. Their services were priceless in the loving attention given to Tillie and assistance to her family.
In lieu of flowers please donate to your favorite charity.
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