Obituary of Dolores Casas Valadez

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Dolores Casas Valadez, who peacefully entered eternal rest at the age of 80 in her home on February 12, 2025. Born on July 24, 1944, in Las Varas, Saucillo, Chihuahua, Mexico, Dolores immigrated to Hollister, California, at the age of three. She followed her family’s journey as they worked in the fields from Santa Rosa to Hollister. In 1948, her family settled permanently in Hollister, where she built a life rooted in resilience, faith, and an unwavering commitment to serving others. A proud graduate of Hollister High School, Class of 1963, Dolores pursued higher education at Gavilan College, earning her Associate’s degree in Childhood Development through the Re-Entry Women’s Program. She dedicated her career to advocating for and supporting students and families in the Migrant Program, first as a Migrant Health Aide and later as the Support Services Secretary for the Hollister School District. She was a beloved staff member for over 30 years, known for her kindness, warmth, and deep dedication to the well-being of the children and families she served. Dolores was deeply devoted to uplifting those in need, ensuring that the most vulnerable in her community were met with compassion and dignity. Her work reflected her belief that every person deserved care, support, and opportunity, and she dedicated herself to service throughout her professional and personal life. A woman of profound faith, Dolores was actively involved in the RCIA program at Sacred Heart Parish/Saint Benedict Parish, served as a Eucharistic Minister, and formed lifelong friendships through her small faith community. Her spiritual life guided her daily actions, and she found great joy supporting others. She was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, consistently placing family at the heart of her life. She was a devoted mother to her daughter, Victoria Valadez, and a cherished grandmother to Nadia and Caleb Gonzales. She is also survived by her sisters, Emily Casas and Sally Stephenson; her brother, Ralph Casas; and her loving nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Francisca and Elias Casas; her sister, Lourdes Casas; and her brothers, Leo Casas, Roberto Casas, and Alfonso Casas. Dolores found her greatest joy in making memories with the family, whether traveling, sharing meals, or spending cherished time together. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. A Rosary Service will be held at 5 PM on February 19, 2025, at Grunnagle Funeral Home, followed by a Mass at 11 AM on February 20, 2025, at St.Benedict Church.. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the American Cancer Society in honor of her courageous battle with cancer and unwavering strength. May she rest in eternal peace, forever cherished in our hearts. Que descanse en paz eterna, y que su luz siga guiándonos siempre.