Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel Obituaries

A Legacy of Compassion and Care: Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel

Located in the heart of Gridley, California, Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel has been a beacon of comfort and support for families in their time of need. With a rich history and a commitment to excellence, this esteemed funeral home has earned a reputation for providing compassionate and personalized services to the community.

A History of Dedication and Service

Founded on a foundation of trust, respect, and dignity, Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel has been serving the people of Gridley and surrounding areas for generations. The funeral home's legacy is built on a deep understanding of the importance of honoring loved ones with meaningful and memorable farewell ceremonies. Over the years, the chapel has remained committed to its core values of compassion, integrity, and professionalism, earning the trust of countless families who have placed their faith in its care.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Gale Galusha Hodges - September 21, 1933 - April 30, 2024

Departed: 04/30/2024 (Gridley)

Obituary Preview: Gale G. Hodges, 90 of Biggs, passed away April 30, 2024 in Gridley, California. The family will celebrate his life privately.

Arrangements entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel.

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Elton Wilbur Lee - January 17, 1938 - April 23, 2024

Departed: 04/23/2024 (Gridley)

Obituary Preview: Elton W. Lee, 86 of Gridley, passed away April 23, 2024 in Gridley, California. The family will celebrate his life privately.

Arrrangements entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel.

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David Arthur Richins - February 21, 1941 - April 18, 2024

Departed: 04/18/2024 (Gridley)

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Kit Lynn Cassaday - November 19, 1944 - April 08, 2024

Departed: 04/08/2024 (Gridley)

Obituary Preview: Patrick L. Cassaday, 79 of Chico, passed away April 8, 2024 in Gridley, California. The family will celebrate his life privately.

Arrangements entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel.

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Steven George Fredericks - March 02, 1941 - April 04, 2024

Departed: 04/04/2024 (Gridley)

Obituary Preview: Steve Fredericks, 83, of Gridley, CA died at his home on April 4, 2024.

Steve was born in Woodland, CA in 1941 to Bill and Veneva Fredericks. He attended Union Elementary School, Esparto High School, and Cal Poly University.

He meet the love of his life, Louise Lambert, in 1959 at the Yolo County Fair. They became inseparable and were soon married in 1960.

Steve and Louise made their first home in San Luis Obispo where Steve attended school and worked at the local service station. From there, they moved to Shingle Springs where Steve managed the Vita Bark plant. In 1977, they moved to Biggs, CA where Steve entered into the family John Deer Tractor business and began farming walnuts and rice.

Steve and Louise have four children, Jeff Fredericks (Darlene) of Biggs CA, Greg Fredericks (Linda) of Albuquerque NM, and twins Kim Lewis and Cami Dew (Chuck) both of Oroville, CA. In addition to their children, Steve and Louise are blessed with nine grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.

Steve was a volunteer fireman and a member of Rotary along with being an active member of The Comanche Riders for 34 years and The Masonic Lodge for 62 years.

He was preceded in death by parents Bill and Veneva, brother Bill Fredericks, and son in-law Barry Lewis.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years Louise Fredericks, sisters Vickie Murphy (Bob) and Lisa Bricker, sister in-law Darlene Fredericks, and brother George Alcock, along with Steve’s children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Steve was blessed with a loving family and lifelong friends. It was his family and friends that he took such pride in and loved so much. Sharing a good joke or story made him the life of the party. Knowing Steve was to have a story or two with him.

A private ceremony is being held at the Murphy Ranch in Brooks, CA.

The public celebration of life is being held on Saturday April 20th at 11 AM at the Gridley Moose Lodge located at 1533 Hwy 99, Gridley, CA for all of those that would like to attend.

Arrangements entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel.

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Garry Ray Reynolds - February 14, 1956 - April 02, 2024

Departed: 04/02/2024 (Gridley)

Obituary Preview: Garry R. Reynolds, 68 of Gridley, passed away April 2, 2024 in Marysville, California. The family will celebrate his life privately.

Arrangements entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel.

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Richard Elwood Jones - July 22, 1933 - March 30, 2024

Departed: 03/30/2024 (Gridley)

Obituary Preview: Richard "Dick" Jones, born 22 July 1933 in Sacramento, CA, to Elwood and Maxine, passed away Saturday, March 30th at his home in Gridley with his wife of 62 years, Donna, by his side.

Richard was raised in Gridley, attended local schools and graduated from Gridley High School in 1951. Dick married Doris Baker in 1951 and had two kids, Richard Jr., and Sharon.

Dick married Donna in 1962. Together their family grew with three more kids, Cheryl, Patti and Steve.

Richard worked for Wentz Market, in the late 50's and then the Insurance business for over 50 years in several locations in Gridley and Colusa. Dick finally retired in 2013 at the age of 80. His dedication to Gridley Little League is well known, but he also donated a lot of his time to multiple Community Service organizations throughout the years. Dick loved his baseball and attended games in every Major League Ball Park across the country. In later years, Dick would always be seen in his Blue Jeans, white tee shirt and Red Suspenders.

Dick leaves behind his wife Donna, sisters Marlene Lewis and Beverly Owen, 5 children, 10 Grandchildren and 12 Great-Grandchildren.

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Ana Garcia - September 26, 1933 - March 30, 2024

Departed: 03/30/2024 (Gridley)

Obituary Preview: Ana Garcia, 90 of Gridley, passed away March 30, 2024 in Sacramento, California. A mass will be held on Monday, April 8, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, interment to follow at Live Oak Cemetery.

Arrangements entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel.

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John William Sample - April 24, 1941 - March 26, 2024

Departed: 03/26/2024 (Gridley)

Obituary Preview: John William Sample, 82 years old, passed into his eternal home with Jesus, at 1:00 am Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at home in Gilbert, AZ where he lived with his son, Kevin and family. John was born April 24, 1941 in Gridley, CA to Durwood and Irene Sample. He graduated from Gridley High School with the class of 1959. John served our country in the United States Air Force from 1959-1963. He served in the military police, including a tour of duty in South Korea. On June 16, 1962, John married Gale Gillespie whom he was married to for 58 wonderful years.

John and Gale lived many years in Gridley, CA and Manteca, CA, but also resided in Eureka, CA, Crescent City, CA, and La Pine, OR. Faith in Christ and commitment to the local church were central to John’s life and family. He served in various church leadership roles throughout his life. John was an active member of the Gideons International organization devoted to distributing copies of the Bible in hotel rooms, to military personnel and first responders, and more. During his years in Oregon, John joined the La Pine chapter of the Oregon Band of Brothers Veterans organization. John was a little league baseball coach, a high school football referee, and an avid sports fan. He could regularly be found at his kids’ and grandkids’ games. Most notably, John will be remembered as a kind, gentle man who loved people, served his local church, and had a way of making everyone feel important.

John is survived by his son, Kevin (Kelli) of Gilbert, AZ, his daughter, Jill (Craig) James of La Pine, OR, 3 grandchildren, 2 great grandsons, and his sister, Bess Roush of Yuba City. John is predeceased by his wife, Gale (January 2021).

Arrangements entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel.

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Santiago F Sanchez - November 25, 1973 - March 25, 2024

Departed: 03/25/2024 (Gridley)

Obituary Preview: Santiago F. Sanchez, 50 of Gridley, passed away March 25, 2024 in Sacramento, California. A mass will be held on Thursday, April 4, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Gridley. Interment immediately following at the Gridley Biggs Cemetery.

Arrangements entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel.

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Betty Jack Tunnell - April 01, 1942 - March 10, 2024

Departed: 03/10/2024 (Gridley)

Obituary Preview: Betty J. Tunnell, 81 of Los Banos, passed away March 10, 2024 in Los Banos, California, surrounded by her loved ones. A graveside service will be held on Friday, March 22, 2024 at Gridley Biggs Cemetery at 1:00 p.m.

Arrangements entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel.

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Verlis AJ Dowd - June 15, 1937 - February 27, 2024

Departed: 02/27/2024 (Gridley)

Obituary Preview: Verlis AJ Dowd, aged 86 years old, died peacefully on Tuesday, February 27, 2024 in Yuba City, California. He was born on June 15 1937 in Flippin, Arkansas, the only child of Rachel and Earl Dowd. When he was 8 months old, his family migrated to California eventually settling in Oroville where he was a proud resident of the city and a 1954 graduate of Oroville high school. He attended Chico State College and married Sharon Frakes in 1958 and had four children. He and his father, Earl, started Dowd’s Floor Covering in Oroville and eventually opened up Dowd Interiors in Yuba City. Through hard work and dedication, he expanded Dowd Interiors to Colusa, Chico and the main store in Live Oak. He moved his young family to Gridley in the mid 70’s.

Verlis’ family was his passion and he was a loving husband, supportive father and doting grandfather. He loved the game of golf with all his heart and found inspiration in its challenges. Verlis made people feel good about themselves and enjoyed socializing. He is survived by his wife, Sharon, son Steven (Debbie Thompson), daughter Roxanne (Mark Haddy), son Jeff, and daughter Jody; grandchildren, Stephanie and Steven Earl Dowd, Michael Millner (Denise Palma), Ciaira Guhl, Emery Haddy (Megan Anthony), MJ and Ellie Dowd, and great grandchildren Hayley, Adalyn and Reagan Millner.

A celebration of life will be held sometime in the future.

Arrangements entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel.

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Betty Irene Jenkins - August 24, 1928 - February 15, 2024

Departed: 02/15/2024 (Gridley)

Obituary Preview: Betty Irene Jenkins was born August 24, 1928, in Yuba City, CA to James and Alice Frost. She was the first born of the “Frost Girls”. Sisters to follow were Sue Frost Fieth, Evelyn (Bridget) Frost Davis and Janice Frost Townsend.

Betty and Gerald Jenkins were married April 24, 1948. They went on to raise seven children. Steven, Sandra Mattos, Dale, Diana Mendoza, Rodney, Larry, and Gail Hedlund.

Betty is survived by all seven children, ten grandchildren, eleven great grands and three great-great grands. Sister Janice and a niece Cindy also survive.

Becoming empty nesters, Jerry and Betty started traveling the western states. Also the “Frost Girls” made three trips to Hawaii for the worldwide Hula Festival. Inculded in the "Frost Girls" adventures were at least a dozen celebrity shows in Reno and South Shore Tahoe.

Betty was a big fan of Rush Limbaugh since his early days on KFBK Sacramento. After Hawaii the girl trips were closer to home mainly Santa Rosa, Occidental and Bodega Bay Area. As evidenced by many Snoopy dolls Betty was a fan of Peanuts and chrles Schultz.

Betty passed away peacefully at home, February 15, 2024. Services were held February 22, 2024.

Arrangements entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel.

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Maria de Jesus Maldonado - December 25, 1934 - February 15, 2024

Departed: 02/15/2024 (Gridley)

Obituary Preview: Maria de Jesus Maldonado has sadly passed away on February 15, 2024 at the age of 89. Maria was so much to all of those around her. She was a beloved mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, cousin, aunt, comadre, and friend. She was born on December 25, 1934 to Braulia and Bartolo Olvera in Tamaulipas, Mexico.

She will be remembered for her green thumb, the love her family could taste in her cooking, and her sense of humor. Maria’s love was unconditional. She married at a young age and shared a happy marriage of over 50 years with her husband, Emilio, before he passed away. They worked as a loving unit to raise their four children together in the town of Gridley, California where they resided for 35 years.

After the passing of her husband, Maria moved into the town of Manteca to live with her daughter, Rosa. Eventually, she relocated to her own apartment nearby. She enjoyed a lively independent life for 15 years before her dementia required she have around the clock care. Rosa and Isabel, her daughters, opened their homes to their mom as co-caregivers until Jesus called her home.

Maria was preceded in death by her parents, Braulia and Bartolo Olvera, her brothers, Bartolo, Leonardo, and Manual, her sister, Juana Gonzalez, her beloved husband, Emilio Maldonado, her daughter, Alicia Maldonado, and granddaughter, Rosa Maria Maldonado. She is survived by her children Juan Manuel Maldonado, Rosa Aguilar, Maria Isabel Maldonado-Lopez, her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandson. She will live on forever in their hearts and memories.

Maria will be laid to rest in her beloved town of Gridley, California with her husband, Emilio. Visitation and Rosary will take place at Gridley- Block Funeral Chapel on 2/27/2024 3-7pm. Church services will be held at the Sacred Heart Parish in Gridley on 2/28/2024 11am.

Arrangements entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel.

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Martha Jean Hughes - April 15, 1945 - February 12, 2024

Departed: 02/12/2024 (Gridley)

Obituary Preview: Martha Jean Hughes, born April 15, 1945, in the Gridley, California, Stork Retreat to Mary Bozzo Hughes and Jack Hughes, was the surprise "Baby B" twin to her sister Mary Jane Hughes. Martha passed away unexpectedly and quickly Monday, February 12, 2024, at Adventist Rideout Hospital in Marysville, California, from complications related to cancer.

Martha's early years were spent growing up with her parents, older brother Joe, twin Mary, and younger sister Kathleen surrounded by a large array of Hughes and Bozzo relatives in the Manzanita area of Gridley and later at the Hedger Road ranch and farm in Live Oak. Many heartfelt stories have been exchanged revolving around family gatherings in Manzanita, the Five Dot Ranch in Susanville, California, and family visits to Medford, Oregon. From Hedger School, Martha matriculated to Notre Dame High School and graduated from Yuba College before taking off to San Francisco where she and sister Mary worked for ATT/ Pacific Bell, first as operators, then rising through the ranks to management. Martha specialized in engineering management. A second career after ATT/ Pac Bell was time spent as administrative assistant to the principal at Luther Elementary School in Live Oak, California.

The heart of this wonderful human being was family. Although she never had biological children, she mothered all her nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, showering them with profound and unconditional love and support. Each of them has been blessed and impacted by her unforgettable focus and the time she gave them by her presence, kind words, and listening skills. Whether attending volleyball games at Yuba City High, wrestling matches at Live Oak High, soccer games, baseball and football games at Gridley High, traveling regionally and nationally to goat and sheep shows, as well as cheerleading and parking spot painting events, Martha was always there for them. She also was not afraid to tell them to change course if this needed to be said. They are all better people due to her presence and influence.

A welcoming and gracious hostess, Martha made people feel "at home" in her home. Guests looked forward to her remarkable old fashioned cocktails and delicious salads…and this from a person who rarely drank and didn't think she could cook. A lover of animals, Martha nursed baby bunnies to adulthood and showed the greatest of patience to them and her pet dogs as they rampaged through and damaged her garden. Much like her mother, Mary Bozzo Hughes, Martha loved the never ending peace and solace of the yard and the evolving beauty created when flowers were well tended. She was the type of in-law one would love to imagine having; supportive, loving, and always positive. To friends she was kind, loyal, and always ready to go on with them to the next adventure. Martha's loving dedication and commitment to her sister Mary were evident on a daily basis as they shared laughs, work duties, commitments, and prepared for family gatherings. As Martha mentioned just before passing, they were " a team". Her silly sense of humor was tolerated just because it was a story from Martha as she giggled and laughed at recalled ridiculous situations.An adventurous, fun-loving and full-of-life person, Martha was also incredibly strong, as evidenced in the fortitude and courage she displayed in her final days. A huge hole is left in the hearts of her family and friends with Martha's passing.

She is survived by her twin, Mary Hughes, brother Joseph Hughes (Margaret) sister Kathleen Key (Malcolm); nieces Elise and Amy Hughes, nephews Bernie and Philip Hughes, great-nieces Grace and Ella Hughes; and great-nephew Bryce Hughes. Loving nephew Nathan Key(Carie); great-nieces Avery and Claire Key and great-nephew Jack Key; niece Sarah Bissell (Drew), great-nephew Brooks Bissell and great-niece Nico Bissell; niece Mary Carolyn Barker (Ron) and great-nephew Ames Barker and great-niece Margot Barker; and especially great-nephew Tyler Key, son of the late Brooks Key and Natalie Upton, will profoundly miss her presence.

Martha is predeceased by her parents Jack and Mary Hughes, nephew Brooks Key, and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. A private family mass will be held for her at Sacred Heart Church in Gridley followed by burial at the Gridley-Biggs Cemetery. May this very good woman rest in peace.

Arrangements entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel.

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Wilma Lucille Penning - December 08, 1942 - February 10, 2024

Departed: 02/10/2024 (Gridley)

Obituary Preview: Lucy Penning, born Wilma Lucille Snyder on December 8, 1942 in Carthage, MO passed away peacefully at her Gridley home, surrounded by family on February 10, 2024.

Lucy grew up on her family cattle ranch at Leesville, CA. She was active in 4-H, played banjo, loved riding horses and raising calves and sheep. She attended Stonyford School and Mercy Academy in Red Bluff. Lucy married Pat Penning in 1976, they moved to Gridley in 1981 and farmed rice and walnuts.

She had a green thumb growing flowers and vegetables. Known for her cooking and gardening, she loved entertaining and feeding family and friends and sharing her wonderful tomatoes. She owned and rode horses her entire life and in later years enjoyed breeding and raising cutting horses for competition.

Lucy was preceded in death by husband Pat Penning, parents Matt and Thelma Keegan, father Rex Snyder and sister Catherine (Keegan) Townzen.

She is survived by children Julie (Dunlap) Farnham, Cash Dunlap, Lynn Pippitt (Ross), Greg Penning (Lisa), and Joe Penning; siblings Mary Burleson, Sara Harrison (Jerry), Jim Keegan and Bob Keegan, and her sweet little dog Twoie. Lucy loved and was so proud of her 12 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

A celebration of Lucy’s life will be held Thursday March 7 at 1:00pm at the Gridley Moose Lodge.

The family requests donations in lieu of flowers to Society of St. Vincent DePaul Gridley, Hospice, or your choice of cancer support.

Arrangements entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel.

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Cami Jeane Roles - April 02, 1970 - February 09, 2024

Departed: 02/09/2024 (Gridley)

Obituary Preview: It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of Cami Jeane Roles’s passing on February 9th, 2024. Her battle with ALS came to an end, leaving behind a legacy of love and resilience. A graveside service will be held on Friday, February 23, 2024 at Gridley Biggs Cemetery.

Arrangements entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel.

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John Allen Holcomb - October 01, 1942 - February 06, 2024

Departed: 02/06/2024 (Gridley)

Obituary Preview: John A. Holcomb, 81 of Williams, passed away February 6, 2024. The family will celebrate his life privately.

Arrangements entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel.

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Hailey Leanne Bartell - April 27, 2004 - February 02, 2024

Departed: 02/02/2024 (Gridley)

Obituary Preview: Hailey L. Bartell, 19 of Gridley, passed away February 2, 2024 in Live Oak, California. In loving memory of our beloved Hailey Bartell, we invite all friends, family, and those touched by her life to please join us in service at the Gridley-Biggs Cemetery under the gazebo. Her funeral service will take place March 1st at 11:00 a.m. Our family would greatly appreciate your presence, love, and support during this time. We look forward to seeing you all. Please feel free to invite and share with anyone Hailey knew and loved!

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Diana Karina Figueroa - August 02, 2003 - February 02, 2024

Departed: 02/02/2024 (Gridley)

Obituary Preview: Diana Figueroa, 20 of Gridley, passed away February 2, 2024 in Live Oak, California. A graveside service will be held on February 21, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Gridley Biggs Cemetery.

Arrangements entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel.

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Grey Belnap Titmus - June 15, 1951 - January 27, 2024

Departed: 01/27/2024 (Gridley)

Obituary Preview: Grey Belnap Titmus, 72, from Boise Idaho, has been called to serve the Lord Jesus Christ in the kingdom of heaven on January 27th, 2024. His final hour was spent walking hand in hand with his beloved wife of 50 years, Robyn. Grey was born June 15, 1951, in Boise Idaho to loving parents, James Leroy Titmus and Tyra Lou Belnap.

Always the adventurer, Grey enjoyed the outdoors to their fullest in his youth. Grey graduated from Borah High School in 1969. After high school he worked on an Inter- Regional Forest fire Hotshot crew for the summers between university semesters at Brigham Young University. In 1973, he married Robyn Glauser and was sealed for time and eternity in the Salt Lake temple. He received his accounting and finance degree, and joined his father and brother in forming Edenbrook Homes Inc. They built many homes throughout the Treasure Valley. He served as a Boy Scouts of America Scoutmaster and received the Silver Beaver Award as well as helped each of his sons earn their Eagle Awards. He served in many other callings in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints including Bishop for the Young Single Adult 8th ward and as a Home and Farmland Reserve missionary in Oklahoma, Northern California, and Florida. Grey put service to others as a priority during his life, second only to his family.

Grey is survived by his siblings, James Titmus Jr, Becky Hanson (Steven) and Serena Jones-Bowden (Ray); his wife Robyn Titmus; his children, Lena Sannar (Blane), Roger Titmus (Megan), Emily Howell (Daniel), Cory Titmus (Andrea), M. Chad Titmus (Mary) and 22 grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents.

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Phronsie Joan Deen - October 23, 1941 - January 22, 2024

Departed: 01/22/2024 (Gridley)

Obituary Preview: Phronsie Joan Deen, 82, a resident of Biggs for over six decades, passed away in her home on Monday, January 22, 2024.

Phronsie was heavily involved in her family farm, passionate about her family, and was dedicated as one of Jehovah's Witnesses 51 years ago and spent her life sharing her personal convictions of the Bible's hope for the future of the human family and of the earth. July 12, 1972.

She is survived by her daughter Dandrea Deen, her grandson, Colton Graff and granddaughter Fairryn Graff. Also, her brother and two sisters along with her brother-in-law Stanley Deen and multiple nieces and nephews and many friends.

There will be a public memorial on February 24, 2024, at 12:00pm at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses at 140 Idaho Street, Gridley, CA. A luncheon will immediately follow in Butte Hall at the Butte County Fairgrounds in Gridley.

Arrangements entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel.

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Lloyd Clair Ponciano Jr. - March 02, 1946 - January 11, 2024

Departed: 01/11/2024 (Gridley)

Obituary Preview: Lloyd Clair Ponciano, known to his loved ones as Ponch, passed away peacefully on January 11, 2024, at the age of 77 in Biggs, CA. He was born on March 2, 1946, in Gridley, CA, and was the son of the late Lloyd Ponciano Sr and Wanda Biles.

Ponch had a heart of gold and was known for his hard work, kindness, wit, genuineness, and loyalty. He had a successful career as a machinist, working for Hust Brothers in Marysville and later at Butte Auto Parts in Gridley. Ponch then became the manager of Gridley Warehouses, where he dedicated nearly 30 years of his life. In the late 80s, he ventured into the trucking business and started Ponciano Trucking, owning several tractor-trailer trucks. He retired from the trucking industry at the age of 68.

When Ponch wasn't working, he enjoyed pursuing his hobbies. He had a passion for fishing, hunting (especially bow hunting), and camping. He cherished spending time with his family up near Chester, CA. Ponch was also a lifelong fan of the San Francisco 49ers and passionately cheered on the San Francisco Giants.

Ponch is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Wanda Ponciano. He will be deeply missed by his daughter, Dustina Cordero of Marysville, son Robert Ponciano of Biggs, son-in-law Ramon, daughter-in-law Amber, grandson Kristofer Munsee of Yuba City, Haylee Stowe (Jordy) of Gridley, Chelsea Schroeder (DJ) of Yuba City, and Briar Ponciano of Biggs. Ponch was also proud to be the great-grandfather of one great-grandson, KC, and four great-granddaughters, Maycie, Karter, Ashton, Mallorie, and Magnolia. He is also survived by his brother Rick Ponciano and sisters Karan Clark, Sharon Ponciano, Debra Molloy, Pam St Clair, Tracy Cummins, and Shelly Taylor.

Ponch was preceded in death by his son Christopher Ponciano, mother Wanda Biles, sister Robin Ponciano, brother Gene Smith Jr, and his father Lloyd Ponciano Sr.

A memorial service to celebrate Ponch's life will be held on Thursday, January 18, 2024, at 10:00 am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, located at 400 Spruce Street, Gridley, CA. Following the service, a reception will take place at The Gridley Moose Lodge. The family warmly welcomes all who wish to pay their respects and honor Ponch's memory.

Ponch's legacy of hard work, kindness, and love for his family and community will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in eternal peace.

Arrangements entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel.

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Virginia Alcantar - July 10, 1921 - January 10, 2024

Departed: 01/10/2024 (Gridley)

Obituary Preview: Virginia Alcantar, 102, of Live Oak, CA passed away on Wednesday, January 10, 2024.

Virginia was born July 10, 1921 in Uriangato, Guanajuato, Mexico. She was a lifelong resident of Live Oak.

She enjoyed watching soccer games, going to the casino and making homemade flour tortillas for her grandchildren. She also enjoyed attending church at Our Lady of Guadalupe in Live Oak.

She is preceded in death by her Husband, Francisco Alcantar and her son, Leonel Alcantar.

A viewing will be held on Monday, January 22, 2024 from 4:00-6:00pm at Our Lady of Guadalupe in Live Oak. A rosary will follow at 6:00pm.

A mass of Catholic burial will be held Tuesday, January 23rd at 10:00am at Our Lady of Guadalupe in Live Oak. Burial to follow at Live Oak Cemetery.

Arrangements entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel.

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Wanda Jean Schrieken - July 04, 1932 - December 31, 2023

Departed: 12/31/2023 (Gridley)

Obituary Preview: Wanda J. Schrieken, 91 of Gridley, passed away December 31, 2023 in Gridley, California. A graveside service will be held on Friday, January 19, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Gridley Biggs Cemetery.

Arrangements entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel.

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A Team of Caring Professionals

The staff at Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel is comprised of experienced and empathetic professionals who are dedicated to providing exceptional service to each and every family they serve. From funeral directors to support staff, every member of the team is trained to provide gentle guidance and support during one of life's most difficult times. They understand that every individual is unique, and they take the time to listen to families' needs, preferences, and stories, tailoring their services to meet each family's distinct requirements.

Personalized Funeral Services

At Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel, every funeral service is carefully crafted to reflect the personality, interests, and accomplishments of the deceased. The funeral home offers a range of options to suit different tastes, beliefs, and cultural backgrounds, from traditional funerals to cremation services, memorial gatherings, and celebrations of life. The staff works closely with families to create a personalized tribute that not only honors their loved one but also provides a sense of closure and healing.

A Beautiful and Serene Facility

Nestled at 679 Ohio St., Gridley, CA 95948, Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel's facility is designed to provide a peaceful and comforting atmosphere for families and friends as they gather to say goodbye. The chapel's elegant décor, soothing colors, and serene ambiance create a sense of calmness, allowing families to focus on celebrating the life of their loved one. The facility is also equipped with state-of-the-art technology, ensuring that every service is conducted with dignity and respect.

Pre-Planning and Advanced Planning Options

Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel understands that planning ahead can be a wise decision for individuals who want to ensure their final wishes are respected and alleviate the burden on their loved ones. The funeral home offers pre-planning and advanced planning options, allowing individuals to make informed decisions about their funeral arrangements in advance. By doing so, families can avoid making difficult choices during an already emotional time, while also locking in costs at today's prices.

Community Involvement and Support

Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel is deeply rooted in the local community and is committed to giving back through various initiatives and partnerships. The funeral home regularly participates in charity events, fundraisers, and educational programs, demonstrating its dedication to supporting the well-being of the community it serves. Additionally, the staff offers bereavement support groups and counseling services to help families navigate the grieving process.

A Commitment to Excellence

At Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel, excellence is not just a goal – it's a standard. The funeral home strives to exceed expectations in every aspect of its services, from initial consultation to final farewell. By combining traditional values with modern practices, Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel has established itself as a leader in the funeral industry, earning recognition from peers and families alike.

Contacting Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel

If you're seeking compassionate guidance during a difficult time or would like more information about Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel's services, please don't hesitate to reach out. You can contact the funeral home by phone or visit their website to learn more about their offerings. Remember, you're not alone – Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel is here to support you every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It may also include information about their family, accomplishments, and funeral or memorial services.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to inform friends, family, and community members of a person's passing, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences. They also provide a sense of closure and help to celebrate the life of the deceased.

Who typically writes an obituary?

The task of writing an obituary usually falls to the family members or close friends of the deceased. Funeral homes or crematories may also offer assistance in writing and publishing obituaries.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service, hobbies, and surviving family members. It may also mention any notable achievements or awards.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary, but it's generally recommended to keep it concise and focused on the most important details. Aim for around 100-200 words.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many online obituary platforms and newspapers allow you to include one or more photos of the deceased. This can help to personalize the tribute and make it more meaningful.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to inquire about their submission process and any specific requirements they may have. Be prepared to provide the necessary information and payment for publication.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance as a way to ensure that their life story is told accurately and with dignity. This can also be a therapeutic exercise in reflecting on one's life.

What is a self-written obituary called?

A self-written obituary is sometimes referred to as an "autobit" or "self-obit."

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the newspaper or online platform. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to several hundred dollars for print publication, while online obituaries may be free or low-cost.

Can I publish an obituary online only?

Yes, there are many online platforms that allow you to publish an obituary without printing it in a physical newspaper. These platforms often offer additional features such as guestbooks and photo galleries.

How long do online obituaries remain available?

The duration that an online obituary remains available varies by platform. Some websites may keep them archived indefinitely, while others may remove them after a certain period of time.

Can I edit or update an obituary after it's been published?

In most cases, it's possible to make corrections or updates to an obituary after publication. Contact the newspaper or online platform directly to request changes.

What is a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, typically including only the most basic information such as name, age, and date of death. It's often used when a full obituary is not desired or feasible.

What is the difference between a death notice and an obituary?

A death notice is a concise announcement of a person's passing, while an obituary provides more detailed information about their life and legacy.

Can I include humor or personal anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! An obituary should reflect the personality and spirit of the deceased. Including humorous stories or personal touches can help make the tribute more engaging and memorable.

How do I handle sensitive or controversial information in an obituary?

If there are sensitive or controversial aspects of the deceased's life, it's best to approach these topics with tact and discretion. Consider consulting with family members or friends before including such information.

Can I include charitable donations or memorial information in an obituary?

Yes, many families choose to include information about charitable donations or memorial funds in lieu of flowers. This can be a meaningful way to honor the deceased and support a worthy cause.

How do I find old obituaries?

You can search online archives of newspapers or visit local libraries to access old obituaries. Many genealogy websites also offer access to historical obituaries and other records.

Can I republish an old obituary online?

If you have permission from the original publisher or copyright holder, you can republish an old obituary online. Be sure to credit the original source and respect any copyright restrictions.

Are there any cultural or religious considerations when writing an obituary?