Espi Chavez

Esperanza "Espi" Chavez, an inspiring and charismatic figure in Selma, California, passed away on June 29, 2026. Born on June 5, 1949, in San Francisco, CA, Espi’s life journey led her to become a remarkable hairstylist and shop owner, beloved by her community. For 55 years, she brought joy, style, and confidence to countless individuals at Espi's Barber and Beauty Salon, her own vibrant establishment in Selma. Her zest for life, her captivating charm, and her innate ability to make everyone around her feel special are the qualities that made her unforgettable.

Espi's life was a celebration of passion, craft, and community. Besides being a successful entrepreneur, she was a committed member of the Women's Lion's Club and the Guadalupanos Society of St. Lucy's Church in Fowler. Traveling with her family, creating beautiful beaded artwork, coloring, and indulging in her favorite seafood dishes were among her favorite pastimes. Her spirit of adventure, her love for art, and her enjoyment of life's simple pleasures are a testament to her inspiring personality. They are the enduring memories that her loved ones will cherish forever.

Espi is survived by her loving husband of 51 years, Elias Chavez; her children, Carlos Chavez of Dallas, and Stephanie Martinez and her husband Fernando of San Diego; and her grandchildren, Jonathan and Christian Chavez and Zoe Martinez. She will be missed by her 3 great grandchildren, Katharine Chavez, Delilah Chavez and Leonel Chavez. Espi also leaves behind her siblings Carmen Granada, Mary Ramirez, Ruben Tamayo, Anna Cardenas, Filemon Ramirez, Elisa Huerta, Rosalinda Ramirez, Maricela Garcia, and Filemon Ramirez Jr.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Filemon and Josefina, and her siblings, Manuel Tamayo, Jose Luis Tamayo, and Graciela Ordaz.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Chapel of the Light, 1620 West Belmont Avenue, Fresno, California, followed by the Rosary at 7:00 p.m.

A Funeral Mass will take place on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at Saint Joseph Catholic Church, 2441 Dockery Avenue, Selma, California, with the Committal Service following at Selma Cemetery.

We invite those who knew and loved Esperanza to leave their cherished memories and upload photos of Esperanza to the memorial page. Your stories and pictures will serve as a loving tribute to a life beautifully lived.