Obituary of Velia M. Lara
Velia M. Lara (nee Rodriguez)
Velia M. Lara, lovingly known as "Lee" and "Moomsie," passed away peacefully at the age of 78, surrounded by her devoted family and friends. Born on August 15, 1946, Velia was the cherished daughter of Albert Rodriguez and Celia and Willie Guajardo. She was a lifelong resident of Joliet, IL, until her retirement, when she and her family relocated to Harlingen, TX.
Velia graduated from Joliet Central High School in 1964 and went on to attend Joliet Junior College, where she earned her certificate to work for Illinois Bell. Throughout her career, she dedicated 14 years as a secretary at Dirksen Jr. High School in District 86, and later worked at Santolin Chiropractic while also contributing seasonally at Toys R Us.
Velia will be remembered as a fun-loving person who embraced life to the fullest. She found joy in dancing, bowling, gardening, traveling, and generously donating to numerous charities. Her spirit of kindness and zest for life touched all who knew her, and she leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion.
Velia is survived by her loving daughters, Blanca and Melissa Lara; and her cherished grandson, Maxwell. She is also survived by her siblings, Jaime (Rosie) Guajardo, Kim (John) Mares, Alicia Stogsdill, and Rachel Warning. Velia's godchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and her beloved fur babies, GiGi, FiFi, Angel, Lulu, and Maggie, will all miss her dearly.
Velia was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 57 years, Guillermo G. Lara Sr., who passed away on June 3, 2024; and her loving son, Guillermo G.”Billy” Lara Jr., who passed away on June 5, 2024. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Albert Rodriguez, and Celia and Willie Guajardo; her siblings, Sarah J Rodriguez, Antonio Guajardo, Rey Guajardo, and Clara Guajardo; her nephew, Alex R Mares (May 11, 2024); and her uncle, Locardio Limon.
Velia's presence will be deeply missed, but her memory will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to be part of her journey. Moomsie, your quick, silly wit and kindness will be missed terribly. Please watch over us until we meet again. Love you forever and always.
A Memorial Gathering for Velia M. Lara, along with her husband, Guillermo G. Lara, Sr. and her son, Guillermo G. “Billy” Lara Jr., will be held on Monday, April 21, 2025, at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Rd., Joliet, IL, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Family and friends are invited to meet at 10:45 a.m., on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church, 205 E. Jackson Street, Joliet, IL, where a Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. As it was her request, cremation rites have been accorded.
For more information please call 815-741-5500 or visit her Memorial Tribute page at www.fredcdames.com where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.
