Connie Marie Perez

CONSUELO "CONNIE" MARIE PEREZ Precious mother and faithful, devout Catholic, Consuelo "Connie" Marie Perez, passed away peacefully, with her family, on January 12, 2026 at her home in Kingsburg, California. She was 97 years old. Connie was born in San Gabriel, California on October 9, 1928. She was the second youngest of eight siblings and only daughter of Maria and Wbileado Gonzalez. A lifelong resident of Kingsburg, Connie attended K-8, was a proud Viking and graduate of Kingsburg High School, Class of 1948. Connie met the love of her life, Leonard Richard Perez, closely chaperoned, at a dance at the Fresno Rainbow Ballroom. Leonard enrolled in the US Navy during the Korean War and their courtship blossomed with love letters from the shores of Oahu while he was stationed at Barber's Point. They were married in 1953 at Holy Family Catholic Church in Kingsburg and shared 63 wonderful years together. As his term of endearment, Leonard often called his bride, "Consuelo de mi Vida", Consuelo of my Life. Their love story was an inspiration for many, especially their five children who were all raised in Kingsburg and still reside in the area. Connie was a devoted Catholic and her faith was central to her life. As a teenager, the first Catholic masses were held in her parent's home, prior to the construction of the church in 1950. She was a member of the Kingsburg Catholic Women's Club, sang in the church choir and loved to support the many festivals and activities. Connie was also a member of the ecumenical choir which brought together singers from different Christian denominations. They performed sacred music for area community concerts, fostering unity and fellowship. She was at peace as her journey on earth was coming to an end, knowing she was in God's hands and all was according to God's will and plan. You'd likely find a rosary in a pocket, purse, nightstand, and every night in her hand as she fell asleep, praying for many dear friends and family. Her life was truly rooted in faith. Together with her husband, Leonard and Connie operated the L & C Market, across from Roosevelt School, for over 30 years. They became special friends with generations of junior high school students and faculty. Many loyal customers received store credit by writing their signature on a piece of adding machine paper, tucked in a small recipe box until they could return to pay their charge. Connie supported her husband who purchased and operated Cork 'n Bottle in Selma for over 15 years; they also farmed their small farm of cotton, grapes and almonds. Connie worked seasonally for Del Monte Cannery for about 25 years. She also acted as a liaison for Kingsburg Elementary School District. Utilizing her bi-lingual skills, she worked with parents and the administration to ensure students were attending school. She was a proud Den Mother of Boy Scout Troop 392. As she transitioned into a more retirement life, she loved to enjoy the company of friends and her beloved family. Pinocle, Bunko, Yahtzee, 4 Kings in a Corner, Spider, Puzzles and Crossword Puzzles, she kept her mind busy. Jeopardy, Wheel of Fortune, she called out answers regularly. EWTN filled her DVR, so not to miss daily Mass and programs. Playing the piano, singing, cooking, gardening and sewing brought her joy. What fun she had riding her three-wheel bike throughout the Randalynn Creek Community. She proudly cheered on her Grand and Great Grand Children at sports and dance events, and was ready to travel at any moment. Connie lived a blessed life, filled with faith, family, friendship and love. We give heartfelt thanks and gratitude for the gift of her life. With every good-bye Connie would say, "God Bless You". God Bless You our most precious Mother. Connie is survived by her five children Leonard Perez Jr. (Marla), Mark Perez (Debbie), James Perez (Connie), Susan Bartholomew (Steven Griffin), and Jane Seymour (Louis Gregory). Grandchildren Derek, Janelle Perez Hughes (Adam), Kayla Cheney (Matthew), Alexis and Brandon Perez. Doug Perez (Brie), Kristin Aguilar (Luis). Dana Buffo (Stephen) and Jodie Langdon. Great Grandchildren Jade Perez Hughes, Blakely and Brylee Cheney, Beau, Nora and Beth Perez. Maxwell and Jackson Buffo. Clayton and Walker Langdon. The family wishes to extend a most sincere thank you to Rev. Mark Maxon and Erin Avila for their comforting words, prayers and presence. Deep gratitude to Connie's compassionate caregiver, Melissa Salinas. And appreciation of Dr. Josphine Perez, for her knowledge and skills, care and kindness over many years. Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 22, 2026 at Holy Family Catholic Church, Kingsburg, CA at 5:00pm, followed by the Recitation of the Holy Rosary at 6:00pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Holy Family Catholic Church on Friday, January 23, 2026 at 10:00am. Interment immediately following at Kingsburg Cemetery. Remembrances may be to the Kingsburg Catholic Women's Club or Kingsburg Cancer Volunteers. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Creighton Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Connie Marie Perez

October 9, 1928 - January 12, 2026