Julia E. Mendez, 91, formerly of Lompoc passed away on Sunday, August 29, 2010. Born June 23, 1919 to Thomas and Mary Silva, she was born, raised and lived most of her life in the Lompoc area, before moving to Santa Maria after the passing of her husband in 1983.

Julia was a hard worker; she worked with her husband Bob on their Jalama Road ranch. She was a member of La Purisma Church in Lompoc and St. Mary's Assumption Church in Santa Maria, as well as belonged to SPRSI and the LUSO American club.

She was preceded in death by Robert C. Mendez, her husband of 27 years, her parents, and siblings, Mary Fagundes, Frank Silva, Manuel Silva and Joe Silva. She is survived by her sister, Hilda Silva of Santa Maria and brother, Tom Silva, Jr. of Coarsegold, California and numerous nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, September 2, 2010 at Starbuck-Lind Mortuary from 5 to 8pm, with the Vigil service beginning at 6pm. The Mass will be on Friday, September 3, 2010 at Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Mission Hills at 10am, with Msgr. Fitzgerald presiding. Interment will be at Lompoc Evergreen Cemetery following the service.