Family Histories: The Jimenez-Feliz Family

Florence, Arizona
September 23, 1995

CELIA JIMENEZ-MIGUEL HIDALGO FELIZ

My parents, Benicio and Mercedes Jimenez left their homeland in Mexico and came to Arizona in 1913.

Miguel H. Feliz and I, Celia Jimenez were married March 7, 1937, by Father Basilio Delgado in the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Mary, in Florence. We also celebrated our 50th Wedding Anniversary on March 7, 1987 also in the Assumption Church officiated by Father Reginald Phelan.

Miguel's parents, Pedro S. Feliz and Ramona Wolven were married April l8, 1913 by Father Henry Hyatts in the Church of the Assumption and also celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary in 1963 in the Church.

As a young girl I was fortunate to attend two summers at the Saint Theresa Academy for girls in Florence. Miguel and I raised three sons, Michael Frederick, William Andrew, Richard Arthur. All baptized in the Church of the Assumption. Miguel worked farming in the Coolidge area but later we moved to Florence permanently and established our home in Florence. As the children got older and decided to leave and start their families, Miguel and I began to get involved with many parish activities. My family helped with fund raisers, Cinco De Mayo Functions and all functions to benefit the Assumption Church and Parish. I also dedicated time and work in teaching. I taught Catechism in the Gila Chapel before it was condemned. The needs of the parish community and families were many. We needed a place to hold functions meetings and gatherings of our families. A building committee was appointed and I was one of its members. We went to Tucson to have a meeting with Bishop Manuel Moreno. It was very successful. Permission was given to build a center for the Assumption. On August 15, 1987 it became a reality, Bishop Moreno came to Florence for the dedication, Mass and reception. Our building was named for Father Reginald Phelan, who had also worked hard to support it. It is called the Phelan Center.

Frederick Feliz married Josephine Garcia. They have one daughter, Michelle. William Andrew married Dora Martinez. They have four sons, William II, Gregory, Mark and Frank. Richard Arthur married Jenny Cruz, (previously married to Beatrice Granillo and divorced). They have a son, Bobby and two daughters, Esmeralda and Monica.

My great grandchildren are Ryan Miranda, Willy III, Elizabeth, Jessie, Rebecca (Ruiz), Stephanie (deceased), Samantha, Ashliegh, Mark Anthony, Whitney Jo and Amber Jo.,

My husband, Miguel died on March 22, 1990. We all miss him because he was very active in all community and church functions. He had membership in a few organizations and was known by his friends and family.

I continue to stay busy and volunteer where ever needed and especially our parish and church. I have been blessed with many benefits, and loving care from God. I am looking forward to our 125th Celebration in November and may His blessings continue.

Celia Jimenez Feliz

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