Death of Elia Villanueva-Hernandez

Elia Villanueva-Hernandez, 42, of Berrien Springs, died Feb. 13, 2023, at her home. She was a self-sacrificing wife, a loving mother, a faithful sister and a sincere friend.

Funeral services were held at 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 18, at the Village Seventh-day Adventist Church in Berrien Springs. Burial was at 9:30 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 19, with a graveside service at Rose Hill Cemetery, Berrien Springs. Memories and messages may be shared online at www.allredfuneralhome.com.

Elia was born July 14, 1980, in Dallas, Texas, the daughter of Gualberto and Epifania (Nava) Villanueva. After graduating from high school, she came to Andrews University to reach her goal of a college degree, which she achieved in 2003 with a Bachelor’s degree in social work. In 2012 she completed her Master’s degree and was a social worker for Catholic Charities.

From her first marriage, she had her beloved firstborn son, Jonathan Lopez (22 years old). Years later, Elia was blessed to find happiness once again by marrying Samuel Hernandez, and from this marriage her beloved son, Joshua Hernandez (4 years old), was born.

Elia was a dedicated and self-sacrificing social worker. As for hobbies, she loved to be with her family and friends, do crafts, watch the Mexican soccer games and the Dallas Cowboys football games, and, of course, go shopping. Her energy, generosity and desire to help others will be greatly missed in our community.

She is survived by her husband, Samuel; her children, Jonathan and Joshua; her mother, Epifania; her sisters: Lili, Ruth and Angelica; and countless family and friends.

Gualberto, her hero and father, preceded her in death.