Joaquina "Jo" Esparza

Joaquina “Jo” Esparza, 97, of Rockford, passed away January 20, 2021, at home with her family at her side. Born November 30, 1923 in Mexico City, Mexico, the daughter of Miguel & Maria (Saldana) Flores. Jo married her childhood friend Francisco Esparza on August 4, 1946 in Mexico City, Mexico. Jo worked for OSF St. Anthony Medical Center for many years, retiring as a Cath Lab Tech. She was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church. She enjoyed sewing, reading, cooking and ballroom dancing with her husband Frank which they enjoyed into their 80’s. Most of all she loved spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. They were the light of her life and she referred to them as “mi corazon” which means “my heart”.
Survivors include husband Francisco “Frank” sons, Arthur (Mary) Esparza and George (Debra) Esparza; grandchildren Ryan (Roberta) Esparza and Kristen Hynes; great grandchildren, Lilian Esparza, Ruby Esparza, Cruz Esparza, Braden Hynes, Chase Hynes and sister Isabelle Flores Vargas. Predeceased by parents, brother Francisco Flores, and sister Carmella Flores.
The family would like to give a special thanks for the care and support from Transition Hospice, especially Aaron and Sarah, and her caregiver Rodrigo.
A celebration of life will be held at a future date. Burial will be in Mexico. In lieu of flowers memorials to the family. Share memories and condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com. Arrangements entrusted to Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel.