Juana D. Vallejo

The dragonfly cuts through the wind— a symbol of change, a messenger between worlds, and a reminder of resilience and enduring strength.

So too was Juana’s spirit— unyielding in her step, tenacious in her journey, and always guiding others toward what endures.

From hardship, strength is born. From endurance, purpose rises. Out of struggle comes resilience. Out of patience comes wisdom. Out of faith comes the power to guide others.

Such was the spirit that lived in Juana— strength not only to survive, but to also stand as an example and turn her life into a blessing for all who followed.

Juana was born in Brownsville, Texas on July 13, 1941 and was raised in Tamaulipas, Mexico. Her journey of opportunity started in “la pisca” as a migrant farm worker traveling throughout the United States with her family, learning early in her life that love is shown through hard work and sacrifice. Despite having little formal education, she was determined to learn and became an avid reader. Juana’s journey later brought her to Los Angeles, where she settled in Watts— a place known for its challenges and its spirit, a neighborhood that carried hardship yet also endurance and creativity. It was there where she did all she could to shape a home. She found ways to root herself in her surroundings and made constant attempts to create space for love and dignity even when the world around her was unrelenting.

Gardening became one of her greatest expressions of resilience. Wherever she walked, she gathered seeds and trimmings, bringing life back to her own soil. She intentionally cultivated indigenous staples like corn, nopales, chile, squash, and tomatoes while also keeping the fragrance and color of roses and carnations nearby. Her impressive knowledge and advanced skills created a collection of plants that fed the body and elevated the soul. She grafted beauty with necessity to create a thriving abundance of sustenance. She shared her plants, her harvests, and her knowledge generously. She made gardening not only a daily practice, but also a gift she extended to everyone around her.

She worked as a teacher’s aide and volunteered as a catechism teacher, always giving her time and faith to others. Determined to continue her own learning, she completed her high school education later in life. Through discipline and perseverance, she showed that growth has no age.

Juana’s steps carried her far beyond her neighborhood. She traveled to Jerusalem and to Rome, walking the paths where Christ once walked. Her pilgrimage to Vatican City was a fulfillment of her faith— a journey that deepened her devotion and became a lasting source of strength.

Among Juana’s favorite words of guidance was the Serenity Prayer:

“God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”

On August 27, 2025, Juana completed her long journey of labor and now finds her rest amongst other members of her family who have already laid down their burdens. The life she shaped through hard work and devotion now becomes a path for her descendants— a call to live with determination, to walk in wisdom, and to pursue a healthy life with intention.

Juana showed her strength to the world by loving herself and in doing so she inspired others. She taught them that courage can reduce suffering and that intention brings its own light.

And when the dragonfly passes by, its wings cutting strong against the wind, we will know Juana’s spirit is near. It will remind us that love never ends, it simply transforms into new life.