Emma Regina Heredia, 59, was born on September 13, 1962, to Alfred and Vera Heredia in Lompoc, California. She passed away on March 5, 2022.

She was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her sisters; Gloria Dukek, Rosalie Siemsen, Mary Lou Rivetti, and Frances Bermudez, and brothers; Louis Heredia and Raul Heredia. She is also leaving behind numerous nieces and nephews and also great-nieces and nephews.

Emma was a happy baby and had such a unique personality, although she was born with a severe neurological and developmental disorder. While that prevented her from ever being able to walk or speak, Emma enjoyed giving hugs, laughing, and eating her graham cracker treats. She was lovingly cared for, unconditionally, by her parents all her life until their deaths in 1997 and 1999. Her sister Rosalie took on the day-to-day care for Emma, living with her and taking on the primary care of her every physical and medical need. In her later years, as she became more restricted to a bed, she always had a radio on in her room, would look out her window, and she would still smile and laugh. Although doctors had initially predicted a short lifespan, Emma proved to be very tough. Her longevity was no doubt lengthened by the loving care given to her by family and friends. Through her, the family learned compassion and empathy. Which left a mark on them that will forever be remembered.

As faithful Jehovah's Witnesses, her parents held hope for Emma's future, and they longed for the day when she would be made new in the paradise promised in the Bible.

A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, March 15, 2022, at 2 pm at the Lompoc Evergreen Cemetery.

Emma will be truly missed but never forgotten.