Marcia Carrizales

Marcia Carrizales, born on October 5, 1934, in Ciudad Victoria, Tamaulipas, Mexico, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2025, in Cerritos, California. A cherished member of her community, Marcia dedicated her life to education and the empowerment of others.

Marcia’s journey through life was characterized by her unwavering commitment to education and her ardent belief in the power of knowledge to transform lives. She earned her 1st Bachelor's degree of Social Sciences and Humanities from the National University in Mexico in 1954, later pursuing her passion for teaching with another Bachelor's degree in Education from the University of Southern California in 1973, where she graduated, magna cum laude. Her thirst for knowledge did not end there; she furthered her education with a Master’s degree of Education from California State College at Dominguez Hills in 1977.

Marcia devoted her professional life to the noble pursuit of teaching, beginning as a primary school teacher and transitioning later into the role of a bilingual coordinator from 1970 until her retirement in 1994. Even after she stepped away from her official duties, her passion for education continued, as she devoted several more years to teaching English as a Second Language to adults. Her students, both young and old, expressed deep appreciation for her dedication, kindness, and the profound impact she made on their lives.

Beyond her considerable achievements in her career, Marcia filled her life with joy through her beloved family gatherings. Her laughter and warmth added brightness to the holidays and birthdays, creating fond memories that will resonate in the hearts of her loved ones forever. With her husband Juan, of 57 years, Marcia shared many delightful adventures as they traveled together, exploring new horizons hand in hand. Together, they cultivated a garden of beautiful roses, much like the blooming memories they created together throughout their years.

In her later years, Marcia embraced the joy of volunteering at the local library, where she delighted in the companionship of fellow volunteers, sharing stories and laughter in the sanctuary of books. This humble yet meaningful endeavor spoke volumes of her generous nature and passion for learning.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and strength, fondly remembered by her son Carlos Carrizales and daughter-in-law Debra Carrizales; her daughter Rosa Anselmo and son-in-law Terry Anselmo; her son Adrian Carrizales; and her grandchildren Christopher, Eric, Andrea, Emilie, Aidan, and Daniel.

Marcia is survived by her sister Yara Ramirez, who, like many others, will hold close to her heart the fond memories they shared. She now joins her husband, Juan Carrizales, and her mother, Leonor Gojon, in eternal rest.

A Funeral Service will be held in her memory on December 6, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Long Beach, California, followed by another service at Forest Lawn - Cypress at 2:30 PM. All who knew Marcia are invited to celebrate a life well-lived and remember the love she imparted to all.