Emilia Escobar

Blanca "Emilia" Escobar, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, left this world on September 2, 2024, at the Loma Linda University Medical Center in Murrieta, California. Born on August 22, 1937, in Managua, Nicaragua, Emilia lived a life that was rich with love, resilience, and unwavering faith.

Emilia earned her certification as a legal secretary in Managua, Nicaragua showcasing her remarkable skills, particularly her amazing memory, and her speed as a typist and a shorthand note-taker— talents that would serve her well throughout her varied career. Early in her life, she worked as a legal secretary before marrying the love of her life, Octavio Augusto Escobar, and emigrating to the United States. In Nicaragua, she and Octavio ran a Texaco gas station, demonstrating her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to their shared dreams. After moving to the United States, Emilia took on various roles, working as a seamstress and a school administrator for an adult trade school. Ultimately, she dedicated her later years to being a devoted homemaker and landlord, where her compassionate and nurturing nature flourished.

Her personality shone brightly. Known for her kindness and resilience, Emilia was a committed wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She always saw the best in others, spoke well of those around her, and embraced life with grace and optimism, even when faced with adversity. Emilia's infectious smile and fun-loving spirit created lasting memories for all who were fortunate to know her.

Among her favorite memories were family road trips to Nicaragua and other countries, weekends in Ensenada, joyous celebrations during yearly Purisima festivities, birthdays, weddings, Nicaraguan parties and vibrant gatherings at wineries, concerts and casinos. She also took great pleasure in cooking traditional Nicaraguan dishes, sharing her love through culinary artistry.

Emilia had the gift of writing and was a passionate dancer, often lighting up the room with her energy and enthusiasm. Her proudest accomplishment was being a mother; her love for her three daughters—Marisol Belden, Dr. Evelyn Escobar-Wood, and Jocelyn King—knew no bounds. She celebrated their successes and supported them unconditionally, embodying a mother’s love in its purest form.

Emilia’s strength shone particularly through her battle with health problems throughout her life. Her unwavering Catholic faith served as the bedrock of her existence, providing her with comfort and courage in the face of difficulties. Just days before her passing, she shared a poignant moment with her daughters, stating, “I visited with my friends, and if that is what Heaven is like, it’s beautiful, and I’m ready to go to Heaven now.” It was a testament to her enduring spirit.

Emilia was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Octavio, and her parents, Constantino "Tino" and Robertina "Tina." She leaves behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and compassion through her daughters, son-in-laws—Orrin Belden, Dr. Gregory Wood, and Kyle King—and her treasured grandchildren: Dr. Orrin S. Belden, Ryan Belden, Andrea Belden, Cameron Belden, Tanner Wood, Austin King, and Jordyn King. She is also survived by her siblings, Jilma, Constantino "Tino" , Yolanda , and Roberto.

A celebration of Emilia’s life will take place at the Forest Lawn - Covina Hills - Church of our Heritage on September 24, 2024, followed by a service at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church and Celebration of Life at Diamond Bar Golf Course on September 25, 2024.

Emilia's life was beautifully woven with love, laughter, resilience, and faith. Her compassionate spirit, captivating smile, stylish elegance and joyful heart will forever be missed but will live on in the hearts and memories of all who were blessed to know her.