IT IS WITH HEAVY HEARTS that the Diocese of Orange announces the passing of Mother Iluminada Soto Garcia, who died on July 22 at the age of 106.
Originally from Zamora Michoacan, Mexico, Sr. Iluminada was born on October 31, 1917, and dedicated 81 years to the religious life. She was known to be the oldest member of the Congregation of the Franciscan Sisters.
Over the years, she had served as Catechist, Religious Formator and Faith Development Coordinator for Youth for Christ Group.
Sister was featured several times in the Orange County Catholic, most recently during her 106th birthday
celebration held at the St. Francis Home for the Aged in Santa Ana with Bishop Kevin Vann in attendance.
Sr. Iluminada was given a special lunch and entertained by a Mariachi band and dancers. She also received a Certificate of Special Recognition from the United Stated Congress House of Representatives.
At the time she had said she was most grateful for “the love of God which has been with me always and who invited me to move into my vows so I could serve Him. My vocation is a privilege.”
Services for Sr. Iluminada were held earlier this month.