Dolores Mendoza Collier's Obituary
Dolores Mendoza Collier, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away surrounded by love and the memories she left behind. Born on August 22, 1947, to Amalia Alvarez Mendoza and Frank Mendoza Sr., Dolores was the youngest of seven children and held a special place in the hearts of her parents.
Dolores is survived by her children, Amalia Moran Sible and her husband, Thomas; Douglas Ray Collier II; and Annie Rae Collier; as well as her treasured grandchildren, Emily Frescas, and her husband, Rudy; and Sarah Hartsell and her husband, Curtis; and Annalise Rae Collier. She is also survived by her brother, Louis Mendoza and his wife, Natalie; sister, Rita Benevidez; great-grandchildren, Christopher Frescas, Michael Frescas, Jacob Frescas, and Amalia Hartsell; and the father of her two youngest children, Douglas Collier I. She was preceded in death by her parents, and her siblings, Frank Mendoza Jr., Dora Compian, Joe Mendoza, and Robert Mendoza.
Dolores, also known as ‘Lola’ loved tennis, painting, crafting, dancing, and music. She was known as the life of the party, captivating everyone with her vibrant energy, infectious laugh, and unforgettable stories. Songs like "Mustang Sally" will forever remind her family of her elegance, charm, and joy on the dance floor.
Her children each held a unique place in her heart. With her oldest daughter, Amalia, she shared a different type of connection, where she recognized and ensured Amalia’s grandparents were in place, who loved and cared for Amalia deeply. Her son, Douglas, whom she affectionately called "little Doug" or "my boy," was her pronounced favorite. She cherished him deeply, not only as a son but as a friend, appreciating his company and their special bond. Her youngest, Annie Rae, was her dance partner and her "Willy." Dolores would lovingly rub Annie’s back to sleep nearly every night as a child, creating a bond that carried throughout their lives.
A stay-at-home mom, she was deeply involved in her children’s lives, from volunteering for field trips to being active in their schools. She made helping others a priority, often stepping in to support those in troubled situations. As a grandmother, Dolores shared an unbreakable bond with all of her grandchildren, Emily, Sarah, and Annalise. Whether bringing a change of clothes when needed, replacing phones that fell in the pool, or tossing a balloon around, she made them feel loved and supported.
Dolores extended her warmth beyond her immediate family, becoming a favorite aunt to her nieces and nephews. She taught her nephew, Frank to dance before his prom, a gesture that meant the world to him and demonstrated her love and generosity. She loved all of her close friends as family, and one of her closest, Rachel Coronado, was always there. Her love towards her animals is not to be forgotten either. Throughout her life she had many pets that brought her happiness, and she cherished them deeply.
She adored her mother, Amalia Mendoza, caring for her for nine years, giving her the best care. Her humor, and ability to make others feel seen and loved left an enduring mark on her family, and others she met.
Dolores will be remembered as someone who loved in her own way and lived vibrantly. Her legacy will live on in the lives she touched. May her memory be a blessing and her spirit live on in the laughter, dance, and love she inspired.
“God bless her and keep her always”
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