Elisa - Melgoza

Elisa Melgoza, 54, a lifelong resident of Merced, California, passed away on February 26, 2025. Born on June 3, 1970, in Merced to the late Jesús and Elisa Gonzalez Melgoza, Elisa was known for her loving heart, vibrant personality, and unwavering dedication to her family, friends, and students.

Elisa began her education at Tenaya Middle School and graduated in 1985. She went on to attend Merced High School, graduating in 1989. Her love for learning led her to Merced College, where she earned an Associate of Arts Degree in Liberal Studies in May 1999. She later completed her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Liberal Studies at Stanislaus State University in 2004.

Fluent in Spanish and proficient in sign language, Elisa dedicated 25 years to education as a Migrant and Special Education Instructional Aide. She touched the lives of countless students at schools including Galen Clark, Shaffer, Shelby, Aileen Colburn, El Nido, and others. She also served as a substitute teacher at John Muir and various local schools.

While at Merced College, Elisa was an active member of the Extended Opportunities Programs & Services (EOPS), where she served as Treasurer for two years. Through EOPS, she cultivated leadership skills, participated in community service, and helped raise funds for educational initiatives.

Elisa found great joy in traveling, dancing, and sharing laughter with family and friends. One of her most cherished adventures was her first flight to Hawaii, which sparked her love for travel. She especially loved music and her Zumba classes, where her spirit truly shined.

Elisa is survived by her siblings: Jesús Melgoza (Esperanza) of Fresno, CA; Lucia Londono (Mario) of Merced, CA; Raul Melgoza (Amparo) of Winton, CA; and Eusebio Melgoza of Fresno, CA. She is also survived by her godchildren, and many loving nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Jesús and Elisa Melgoza; siblings Reynaldo Melgoza, Mary Lopez, Roberto Melgoza, Martha Dominguez, and Miguel Melgoza; and her nephew, Jose Manuel Melgoza and niece Isabel Melgoza.

Elisa’s radiant smile, sense of humor, and kind heart will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her memory will live on through the many lives she touched and the love she shared.

Funeral services will be held at Sacred Heart Church, located 562 W. 13th St., Merced, California 95341 (on the corner of M St and 13th St) on Friday, June 27th. The Rosary will begin at 9:30am, followed by a Mass at 10:00 am. The burial will be at Calvary Cemetery at 260 W. Childs Ave in Merced, CA immediately following the Mass,

A Celebration of Life reception will follow the burial at Summit Church, located at 500 Buena Vista Dr, Merced, CA.

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