Candelaria ‘Lala’ Helen Willingham

Lala’s Obituary

It is with profound sorrow that we share the passing of Candelaria “Lala” Helen Willingham, who was called peacefully home to God on Jan. 5, 2025, surrounded by her family. Lala was born on Feb. 18, 1947, to Ernest Rivas Sr. and Amanda Julia Stollsteimer in Pagosa Springs, Colo.

Lala was well known for cooking at Jan’s Cafe and Al’s west. She loved to crochet, play bingo and listen to live music, with Variety Express and Los Mitotitos among her favorites. She was also a passionate supporter of the Pagosa Springs High School basketball teams.

On Feb. 22, 1974, Lala married the love of her life. Lala was known for her strong will, unwavering determination and love of her family.

Lala is survived by her husband, Jim Willingham; son Tony Rivas (Rena); daughters Dina Brogan (Gary), Destiny Ritchie (Byron) and Desiree Pruitt (Dylan); grandchildren Marcus, Naquita, Eli, Kristi, Adam, Isaac, Vicente, Amanda, Ira, Danielle, Scarlett, Saxson, Dakota and Dryden; brothers and sisters Tito Rivas (Lisa), Joseph Rivas Sr., Freddy Rivas, Marie Rivas, Molly Cotton, Sharon Wilson and Josie Rivas; as well as many nieces and nephews, great grandchildren, and great nieces and nephews.

Lala was preceded by Amanda Stollsteimer, Ernest Rivas, Hank Rivas, Albert Rivas, Leroy Cotton, Grace Vigil, Cody Ahern, Johnny Baca, Tony Lister, Rudy Candelaria and Jordan Rivas.

The rosary will be held on Jan. 30, 2025, at the Immaculate Heart of Mary at 6:30 p.m. The service will be held on Jan. 31, 2025, at 10 a.m. at John Paul II. The reception will follow the service, and will be held at John Paul II.

life story

Lala: loyal to the end, strong in every storm, and funny enough to make the angels smile.

In Loving Memory of Lala

Our beloved Lala lived a life full of love, laughter, and unshakable faith.

She may have been strong-willed, but the Lord knew exactly what He was doing when He made Lala. She kept us laughing, kept us praying, and now she’s probably keeping the angels on their toes.

Though our hearts ache, we rejoice knowing she’s home with her Savior — still smiling, still watching over us, and surely still in charge.

“A time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance.” — Ecclesiastes 3:4

We will carry her love, her laughter, and her spirit with us always.

memorial service

Rosary

January 30, 2025

Immaculate Heart of Mary 445 Lewis St, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147, USA

The rosary was held at Immaculate Heart of Mary, Jan 30, 2025 at 6:30 pm. The funeral service will be held Jan 31, 2025 at 10 am, at John Paul ll Catholic Church.

Funeral/Cremation Provider: Pope John Paul II Catholic Church