Esperanza Rios

Esperanza Rios, lovingly known as Esperanzita, passed away on September 2, 2024, in the comfort of her home. Born on February 28, 1944, in Guadalajara Jalisco, Esperanza was the only female among four siblings. She faced the early loss of her mother, which instilled in her a resilience and determination that shaped her life.

With a modest academic background, having completed only a third grade of schooling, she nonetheless advanced her education at an adult grade level and graduated from fashion design school in Guadalajara Jalisco, Bella's artes. Esperanza embodied creativity and resourcefulness, often deconstructing clothes to create elaborate designs of her own. She loved teaching others the art of making beautiful dresses and held a deep affection for her Bible.

Esperanza dedicated many years of her life to the field of environmental services at Beverly Hospital. Her career allowed her to touch countless lives, reflecting her caring heart and strong dedication to service. As a born-again Christian, she drew strength from her faith and approached life with a sense of purpose.

Esperanza was a vibrant personality known for her quick wit and clever comebacks. She was a straightforward mother who embodied tough love while nurturing those around her. Loved ones remember her for never complaining about pain unless it was truly severe and for her thoughtful nature, always ready to provide food and water to anyone in need. Each evening ritual included her cherished cup of “lechita con pan” before settling in for the night.

Among her proudest accomplishments was becoming a U.S. citizen on October 23, 2008. Despite the challenges she faced, she consistently sought to help those in her community with whatever little she had to offer, reflecting a spirit of generosity and kindness.

Esperanza leaves behind her loving family, including her son Armando Yanez, daughter-in-law Erika Yanez, granddaughter Brianna Yanez, and great-grandson Anthony G. Yanez. She is also survived by her brothers Efren Sotelo, Jose Luis Sotelo, and Eliodoro R. Sotelo. She is preceded in death by her husband, Manuel J. Rios Sr., who passed away in 1992.

A visitation to honor Esperanza will be held on September 23, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Forest Lawn - Covina Hills in Covina, CA. Following this, a funeral service will take place at the Church of Our Heritage, also at Forest Lawn - Covina Hills, starting at 2:30 PM. Esperanza’s spirit will be deeply missed, and her legacy of love, strength, and compassion will continue to inspire all who knew her.