Marcella Peña

Marcella Pena, 77, of Safford, entered into rest on October 3, 2012. She was born on July 5, 1935 in Socorro, New Mexico to Amadeo Chavez and Andrea Reyes Chavez. Marcella met and fell in love with Ray Pena. They were married in Socorro and had a very big wedding; it was one of the happiest days of Marcella's life. They continued to live in Socorro for a few years but eventually moved to Morenci where Ray began a job at the mine working for Phelps Dodge. During their time in Morenci they were blessed with the birth of their daughter Terry who was instantly the love of Marcella's life. Marcella had the special talent of being able to make stuffed dolls and Terry was the happy recipient of many of those dolls. Terry had many health challenges and was in and out of the hospital when she was young. Marcella had health issues of her own and eventually she and Ray separated. Because of these health issues Terry went to live with her grandmother, Andrea Reyes. Terry lived with her grandmother until she was raised. During these years Marcella was there to help her mother with the duties of the house like cooking and cleaning and helping with Manuel. She loved to braid Terry's hair and was so proud of her pretty little girl. Marcella had a tender heart and would never hurt a soul. Another happy day for Marcella was the day her granddaughter Patricia Rios was born. Patti was the pride and joy of Grandma Marcella. She would take every opportunity to babysit and play with her. She would say, "Oh my Patti, take care of my Patti." She had many days full of laughter with Patti. Marcella again had health issues and went to live at Mi Casa in Safford. After a short time there she went to live at Santa Rosa in Tucson where she ended up living for quite a ling time. Often, Terry would visit Marcella at Santa Rosa. Those visits would brighten Marcella's day and bring her so much joy. Patti would also visit Marcella from time to time and her face would absolutely light up. She was like a little girl when Patti would visit; happy, excited; truly a proud and loving grandmother. Marcella was a very caring, lovable, good person that we will forever love and miss but never forget. God rest her soul; rest in peace Marcella. Services for Marcella will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Clifton on Saturday, October 20 beginning with a viewing at 8:00 a.m. The Rosary prayer will begin at 9:00 a.m. and will be immediately followed by the Mass of Christian Burial. Father Martin Atanga will act as celebrant for the Mass. Final interment will be at Sacred Heart cemetery in Morenci.