Onida Eileen Espejo

It is with profound heartfelt sorrow that we announce the passing of Onida “Corky” Espejo, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, who was called home to the Lord on July 21, 2025, at the age of 72.

Born on November 26, 1952, in Los Angeles, California, Corky was the youngest of three children and grew up in a loving, faith-driven household. The daughter of an Army veteran and devoted homemaker, Corky grew up with the gentle guidance of a devoted mother who was a homemaker and a father whose experiences as an Army veteran imbued the household with discipline, honor, and deep respect for service. Building on those deeply rooted values of love, discipline, and service, Corky found a natural extension of her upbringing in the welcoming arms of the St. Marcellinus Catholic Church, where her faith blossomed into a lifelong source of purpose and community. It is here that Corky discovered not just spiritual fulfillment but a tapestry of relationships that would anchor her through life’s many chapters. Her journey in faith led to countless moments of connection—with assisting with catechism, the Eucharist, and parish events—it was here that she offered kindness, lent a listening ear, and welcomed others with open arms. These gatherings became fertile ground for deep, lasting friendships built on shared beliefs, mutual support, and an enduring sense of belonging. Through every season, her bond with her church family remained unwavering, enriching her life with love, laughter, and heartfelt companionship.

Her commitment to nurturing others extended far beyond the walls of her home and church, finding deep expression in her remarkable 40-year career with the Montebello Unified School District as an instructional aide and literacy tutor. During her tenure, Corky dedicated herself to helping generations of young learners work towards academic success. With patience, joy, and an intuitive sense of each child’s potential, she helped provide safe havens of encouragement in the classrooms she worked in.

Just as she poured love and wisdom into every classroom she entered, Corky brought that same dedication home—where her most cherished role awaited: being a mother. No matter how busy life became, Corky made it her mission to be fully present for her children, Monique and Frank. She was the kind of mother who never missed a moment—cheering proudly from the bleachers at Frank's baseball and football games and applauding with heartfelt admiration at Monique’s ballet practices and performances. Her encouragement wasn’t just about showing up; it was woven into every car ride pep talk, every post-practice hug, and every quiet conversation that reminded them they were deeply loved and believed in. Corky’s constant support became the backbone of their confidence, nurturing their passions and shaping them into the people they are today.

And just as she stood steadfast for her children, Corky embraced the role of grandmother with the same boundless love and devotion. Her heart expanded even more with the arrival of her granddaughters, Alexia and Izabella. She cherished every moment with them, whether being silly and playing with them with animated voices, sharing warm hugs that seemed to erase any worry, or simply watching them grow into their unique selves. Corky’s love and laughter were a constant in her granddaughters’ lives, leaving them with cherished memories and a lasting sense of warmth.

Even amid her deep faith and devoted parenting, Corky had a remarkable ability to keep spirits high with a sense of humor that was truly one of a kind: light-hearted, quick-witted, and delightfully unexpected. Corky brought laughter wherever she went, never missing a chance to lighten the mood with a clever pun or a mischievous grin. Whether she was teasing a loved one with playful sarcasm or turning everyday moments into inside jokes, Corky’s comedic timing brought joy to those around her. She had the rare gift of laughter that was never at someone’s expense, only ever shared, and always uplifting. Her joy was infectious, her spirit unshakable, and a great reminder that we should not take ourselves so seriously but laugh and enjoy the little things in life.

Corky leaves behind a legacy woven from love, laughter, and boundless devotion—a life rich with kindness and purpose that touched everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her humor sparked joy, her faith anchored hearts, and her unconditional care made the world feel gentler and brighter. Though she may no longer walk beside us, her spirit lives on in every shared memory, every lesson passed down, and every smile that echoes her own. Corky will never be forgotten—because love like hers doesn’t fade, it stays deeply rooted in all of us.

Corky is survived by her daughter Monique, son Frank, daughter-in-law Yusdivia, and her two granddaughters, Alexia and Izabella.