Vera Irvin

Vera Saenz Irvin, 81, a longtime resident of Clifton passed away July 18, surrounded by her loving family. She was born January 16, 1934, in Clifton to Sophia Ochoa Saenz and Sixto Molina. Vera attended Eastern Arizona College and South Mountain Community College and later made her occupation as a Library Technician, but most importantly cared for her home and family. Vera was very active in her community and was involved in various organizations including being the editor of the Copper Era from the late 70s to early 80s. She helped initiate the Clifton Food Bank, served on the Clifton Board of Adjustments and Clifton Tourism Council and volunteered at the Visitors Center. Vera was elected to the Clifton City Council and was very active in the Clifton Schools, where she initiated an anti-bullying program and attended School Board meetings. She served as the Vice Chair of the Greenlee County Democratic Party and was a State Committee Member of the Arizona Democratic Party. She was also an active member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Parish, where she loved singing in the Choir. Vera donated time and money to local and national charities and groups including the Clifton Community Garden and Southern Poverty Law Center, to name a few. She also enjoyed gardening, attending Ochoa/Saenz family reunions and traveling with her family. In 1953, Vera married Alex Rodela and together they raised 5 children, Lydia Rodela-Cress, Richard, Evelyn, Michael, and Ronald. She was blessed with 6 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren, with whom she loved spending time. She is survived by her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and her sister, Molly Butchie Sweeney. She was preceded in death by her parents, Sophia & Sixto Molina, brothers, Joe Saenz and Remy Saenz, sisters, Peggy Cervantez and Lily Fierro, and brothers-in-law, John Fierro and John Eric Sweeney. A Viewing for Vera will be held July 31, 2015 at 9:00 a.m. at the Sacred Heart Catholic Parish in Clifton with a Rosary being prayed at 10:00 a.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11:00 a.m. with Father Martin Atanga-Baabuge as Celebrant. Interment will be at a later date.