Linda Francis Candelaria

Linda Frances "Dee Dee" Leon-Candelaria, 76, of Phoenix, Arizona, entered God's
eternal care on July 2, 2026, at 2:25 p.m. at her daughter's home while under the
compassionate care of hospice. At the time of her passing, Linda was surrounded by
the love of her family, including her children, her beloved granddaughter Ilan, her
husband Ray, her brother Tony, and her sister-in-law Debbie. She passed peacefully,
with love and joy in her heart.
Linda was born on June 13, 1950, in Las Cruces, New Mexico, to Edward Leon and
Armida Aros-Wilson. After graduating from Phoenix Union High School, she worked in
administration and bartending before building a long and rewarding career with Phoenix
Job Corps, where she served faithfully for many years until her retirement.
On June 25, 2011, Linda married the love of her life, Joaquin "Ray" Candelaria.
Together they shared 15 wonderful years of marriage, celebrating their anniversary just
days before her passing. Ray adored Linda and will forever miss the love of his life.
Linda was preceded in death by her beloved son, Matthew Ramirez, whom she
cherished with all her heart; her granddaughter, Alexis; and her brothers, Victor "Bunny"
Leon and Ruben Leon.
She is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband, Ray Candelaria; her brothers,
Danny Leon, Eddie Leon, and Tony Leon; her children, Steve, Rochelle, and John
Quinonez; her grandchildren, Matthew Jr., Lauren Quinonez-Khimthang, Ansel "Bubba"
Styles, John "John John" Quinonez, Ilan Quinonez, Ilyana Quinonez, Shayla Quinonez,
Josseline Villarreal, Jose Villarreal, and Amber Ray Candelaria; and her great-
grandchildren, Leilah Quinonez, Alexus Khimthang, Aydan Khimthang, Rameses
Quinonez, Hendrick Styles, and Magnolia Styles. She is also survived by her
stepchildren, Abel, Anna, and Adrian Candelaria; her step-grandchildren; and many
extended family members and dear friends whose lives were enriched by her love.
Through her faith, perseverance, and determination, Linda built a legacy that continues
through her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and the countless lives she
touched.
Linda was a woman of grace, strength, dignity, and unwavering faith. She faced life's
challenges with courage, loved her family unconditionally, and demonstrated a quiet
resilience that inspired everyone who knew her. Her legacy of faith, sacrifice,
compassion, and unconditional love will continue to live on through the generations.
Though she is no longer with us, Linda's memory will forever remain in the hearts of
those who knew and loved her. Her life was a beautiful testament to devotion, kindness,
and enduring love.

Please see scheduled service date and times below. 

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