Paula Duran

Paulita Esparza Duran, 100 1/2, was born January 25, 1915 in Morenci, Arizona, to parents Marcos and Juanita Ornelas Esparza and had eight siblings. Raised in Morenci, she was a homemaker, who enjoyed gardening, quilting, sewing, camping, and trout fishing in the West Fork area of the White Mountains. She would also look forward to visits from her grandchildren and preparing special meals. Additionally, she would religiously clean and iron Holy tapestry for the Holy Cross Church in old Morenci. After her husband retired from Phelps Dodge, they relocated to establish a home in Safford, Arizona until her passing. She was preceded in death by her husband Jose, daughter Irene and son Joe Henry. She is survived by her daughter Virginia G. (Ascencion Pelon) Rios of Solomon and her son Gilbert Gonzales of Thatcher. She is also survived by her grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. The Rosary will be led on Saturday, June 27, 2015 at 9:00 a.m. at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church with the Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 10:00 a.m. with Father Vincent Ahar and Father George Kunnel as celebrants. Interment will be in the Safford Cemetery. Family & friends are invited to attend the bereavement at the church following the interment.