Helen Zaragoza

Helen Zaragoza passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on June 23, 2026. She was born in 1935 in Stockton, CA to Guadalupe and Jessie Miramontes. Wife of the late Gilbert Zaragoza (2024). Beloved mother of daughters Kathleen Lummen (Robert) of Roseville, Karen Del Real (Rudy Jr.) of Sacramento and Elizabeth Acevedo of Orangevale.  She is survived by her daughters, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, brothers Joe Miramontes, Rudy Miramontes and Robert Miramontes, sisters-in-law Esther Miramontes, Celia Ramirez (Adrian), Rosie Ramirez (Fred), Dolores Zaragoza, and Connie Zaragoza, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Helen is preceded in death by her parents, siblings Alice Garcia (Alfred), Nick Miramontes, Laurie Ortiz (George) and Arthur Miramontes, brothers-in-law Jose Zaragoza, Eulalio Zaragoza, and Jess Zaragoza and sisters-in-law Ramona Miramontes, Bertha Mata (Ted), Clara Rios, and Lucy Garcia (Gene).

She attended Arbuckle High School and graduated from Woodland High School in 1952. She attended Sacramento City College majoring in business.  She was employed at the DMV as a typist.  After marriage this local Woodland girl moved to Michigan while her husband was stationed at Selfridge AFB.  Upon returning to Woodland, she was a homemaker, then later volunteered as a Girl Scout Leader.  She returned to the workforce employed as a Salesperson at McDonalds Department clothing store, and later at Liberty House making lasting friendships. After retirement she volunteered at Loaves and Fishes, Latino Junior Golf Association, American Legion events and Mexican American Golf Association events.

Helen and her husband loved spending time with their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, and large extended family, traveling and socializing with her many friends.  She was admired by all who met her. She was truly beloved and cherished by her family and friends.  She was a long-time parishioner of St. John Vianney Church in Rancho Cordova.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at St. Mary’s Cemetery and Funeral Center, 6509 Fruitridge Road, Sacramento, CA; Mass at 11:00 a.m. and graveside service immediately thereafter.