Emily Tapia

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Emily Tapia, born on July 23, 1940, in Los Angeles, California to Jose and Rita Ballesteros, Emily, a beacon of strength and love, passed away on August 5, 2026 in Madera. California. Emily made everyone around her feel loved, valued, and special.

Emily was a vibrant woman who loved her family fiercely. She was the beloved wife of the late Jesse C. Tapia for many years, and their love story was one that inspired all who witnessed it. Emily was also preceded in death by three of her children, Jesse Tapia Jr., Angelo Tapia and Chris Tapia.

She is survived by her loving children Louis Portillo (Gloria), Carmen Cerda, Terry Hernandez, Connie Healy (Gary), Angela Bardwell (Steve), and Robert Tapia (Priscilla).

She was also a cherished grandmother to fourteen grandchildren and the proud great-grandmother to nine great-grandchildren. Emily's siblings, Lilly Vargas and Linda Espinoza, will remember their sister's infectious laughter and unwavering support. Emily's kindness and generosity knew no bounds. In her 21 years of service as a housekeeper, she touched countless lives and left a lasting impact.

Emily's life was a testament to the quote, "The love of a family is life's greatest blessing." She was a woman of resilience and grace, her strength and fortitude evident in everything she did. Emily was a woman who believed in the power of love and family. She was a woman who loved deeply and was deeply loved in return. She leaves behind a legacy of love, perseverance, and kindness. She was a true matriarch, her love and wisdom guiding her family like a lighthouse in the storm.

A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, August 21, 2026 at 10:00 am at The Fourth Street Church of God 222 North N Street, Madera Ca 93637

In this time of sorrow, we invite you to celebrate Emily's life and share your memories of her. Please visit her memorial page, where you may upload photos and share your memories of Emily, allowing us all to remember the remarkable woman she was. Emily was loved and will be missed by all who knew her. She may have left this world, but her spirit continues to inspire us. As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate the love, joy, and warmth she brought into our lives.