Socorro Tapia

Today we say goodbye to a woman who was the heart of our family, our Grandma Nana Coyo. To attempt to summarize her life and the immense love she shared feels like a daunting task, for she was so much more than words can ever convey.

Born on May 13, 1942, Nana Coyo graced this world with her vibrant spirit and infectious smile, and she touched the lives of everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Her kindness knew no bounds; she had a unique gift for making those around her feel cherished and special. Whether it was surprising us with cheeseburgers or Hot ‘n Spicy sandwiches from McDonald’s, or on those scorching summer days, treating us to an Icee from Burger King, she always knew how to bring joy into our lives.

Not only was she generous with gifts, but more importantly, she was generous with her love. Nana Coyo had a beautiful way of making every occasion feel extraordinary. From the warm aromas that filled the kitchen during birthdays and holidays to the meticulously crafted cakes baked with love, she made each celebration feel magical. Her meals were not just food; they were love served on a plate, infused with the warmth of her heart.

She had a gentle, sacred approach to care when we were feeling unwell; a little statue of the Virgin Mary would be placed in our hands as she encouraged us to hold it close. It was in those tender moments, with her beside us, that we felt a healing power like no other—her love transformed pain into comfort.

And how could we ever forget her annual ritual of enjoying a Bud Light at Thanksgiving? That one small gesture reminded us all that she still had a spark of fun, a spunky side that brought smiles and laughter during our gatherings. Nana Coyo was not just a doting grandmother; she was a joyful, strong, funny, and nurturing presence, ever brimming with love.

Grandma gave us so much more than memories; she gifted us warmth, security, and a remarkable example of what it means to love unconditionally. Her legacy will forever resonate in our hearts, teaching us how to carry forward kindness, humor, and family traditions.

Socorro Tapia departed this world on May 26, 2025, but her spirit and love will continue to live on in the hearts of her beloved family: her sons, David Tapia (Nelly) and Carlos Tapia; her daughter, Sandra Fajardo (Manuel); her brothers, Hector, Marcos, and Guillermo Gonzalez; her cherished grandchildren, Jacqueline Fajardo (Juan Carlos De La Cruz), Jessica Fajardo (Dominic), Jazel Fajardo, Manuel Fajardo Jr., and Patsy Medina (Jesse), Alan Tapia (Lluvia); and her adored great-grandchildren, MiaSophia, Dominic Jr, Sebastian, David, Alan, and Adair Isaac.

She is reunited in eternal rest with her husband, Arnoldo Tapia, with whom she shared 40 beautiful years of marriage, as well as her parents, Encarnacion Gonzalez and Mariana Najar de Gonzalez.

Grandma, thank you for everything. We love you beyond measure, and we’ll carry your kindness, laughter, and cherished traditions in our hearts forever.