Isabel C, Gaona

Isabel Castillo Gaona, who lived to the age of 95, peacefully departed this life on January 25, 2026, born in Brawley, California, on July 8, 1930, to Benito and Maria Castillo. She moved with her family, in the mid-1930s, to a farming community near Kettleman Hills, California before settling in Hanford. Like many children of her era, whose formal education ended in the fourth grade, she contributed to the family household working the agriculture fields of Kings County.

After World War II, Isabel married Pete Lopez Gaona, and together they raised six children. She embraced each child as a precious gift from heaven, inspiring them to become responsible members of society. Her children were a source of great joy and pride in her life. She welcomed her grandchildren and great-grandchildren with boundless love, her face lighting up at their arrival.

Beyond her dedication to family, Isabel loved growing tomatoes and watering her trees and plants. She took delight in cultivating fresh roses around her home. She loved crocheting and knitting, skills she taught herself.  Isabel was also a talented seamstress, although she never acknowledged her own talent.

Isabel was preceded in death by her husband, Pete Lopez Gaona, her parents, Benito Castillo and Maria Auces Castillo, and her siblings David, Juan, Carlos, Gloria Castillo, Lucy Cuellar, Consuelo Rios, Mary Burgos and Lina Ruiz. She was the last surviving member of her siblings. She was also preceded in death by her daughter Mary C. Gaona, and her son Peter C. Gaona.

She is survived by four children: Her sons Benny (Carmelita), David, Kennedy, and daughter Rosabell Galvan (Rudy), along with six grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, daughter-in-law, Gloria Gaona (Peter), and many nieces and nephews. Her absence will be deeply felt.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday morning, February 10, 2026, from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. at Whitehurst-Funeral Services Chapel (100 W. Bush Street, Hanford, CA), recitation of the Holy Rosary at 9:30 a.m., followed by mass at Saint Brigid Catholic Church, Hanford, CA. Interment will take place at Calvary Cemetery, Hanford, CA.

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