Patterson

Ayda Pena-Perez was native of Fort Stockton, Texas and was one of 9 children born to Mr. and Mrs. Emiliano Pena.  She attended Fort Stockton High School where she was active in many school organizations.  Upon graduating in 1963, she moved to Alpine, Texas and attended Sul Ross State University.  She later moved to San Jose, Calif. to complete her education.  She obtained her B.A. in Psychology from San Jose University where she met and married the late Robert Perez.
In addition to a long, industrious career in criminal justice, she continued her role as a local community activist in Patterson.  One of her most cherished accomplishments was her membership in the Commission of Status of Women in California.  Ayda was a faithful, dedicated member of Sacred Heart Church in Patterson as well as St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Fort Stockton, Texas. 
She is survived by her son, Jason Perez of San Jose and his wife, Jill; along with their children, Jace and Jenna, and her son, Alejandro Pena-Perez, of Patterson.
A vigil and Rosary will be held at 7 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 26 at Whitehurst, Norton & Dias Funeral Chapel, 286 W. Main St., Turlock. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 27 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 529 I St., Patterson. Burial will be at St. Joseph Cemetery, Fort Stockton, Texas.
Services under the direction of Whitehurst, Norton & Dias Funeral Service, Turlock, www.whitehurstnortondiasfunerals.com.

Turlock Journal
Saturday, December 24, 2011