January 31, 1931 – April 19, 2025

With profound love and deep sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved matriarch, Emelia Montero Tapia, who departed this life peacefully on April 19, 2025, surrounded by her loving family in the comfort of her home. She was 94 years old.

Emelia was born on January 31, 1931, in El Central, California, to John Montero Sr. andTheresa Conde Montero. She is now reunited in heaven with her nine siblings, each of whom she loved dearly.

From a young age, Emelia demonstrated an unmatched work ethic and tenacity. She completed the third grade before joining her family on their farm, taking on the demanding tasks of herding cattle and milking cows. These early experiences shaped her competitive spirit and passion for labor. She took great pride in being the strongest, fastest, and most dependable worker, a reputation she carried with her throughout her life.

As a teenager, Emelia met the love of her life, Francisco Tapia, and together they built a life rooted in hard work, faith, and family. They were blessed with seven children: Frances Tapia (deceased), Carmelita Tapia Pino (deceased), George Tapia, Frank Tapia Jr., Rosa Tapia Ramos (her “favorite,” she’d joke with a smile), Ramon Tapia (deceased), and Dolores Tapia Espinoza (her “baby”).

Emelia’s love for labor continued well into her married life. She was a pioneer in her field, often the only woman laboring in the fields or driving a melon truck—an uncommon sight in the 1970s. Her leadership, fairness, and respect for others earned her the name “Boss Lady” (La Patrona). Alongside Francisco, she invested wisely and proudly purchased their family home in 1960. Later, they bought two melon trucks, symbolizing their rise from hardworking laborers to respected entrepreneurs in their community.

She worked in agriculture for over 40 years, never once relying on public assistance, providing for her family through grit, determination, and love. Her coworkers became her friends, and her vibrant spirit made every work season memorable. After retiring from labor, Emelia found a new passion in cooking. She became a well-known presence at the Big Fresno Fair, where her famous soft tacos and lightning-fast taco rolling skills earned her local fame. Her tamales, especially during the winter season, were unmatched—so delicious and beloved that she fulfilled hundreds of orders every year.

A woman of deep faith, Emelia's spiritual journey began more than 35 years ago. She never missed participating in the annual February walk for the sick in honor of Our Lady of San Juan de los Lagos, hosted by St. Alphonsus Catholic Church. Her unwavering devotion and gratitude to the Lord guided her peacefully through her later years.

In her free time, Emelia enjoyed singing and playing guitar with her beloved Francisco, whom she lovingly called “Tapia.” Their mornings were filled with music and breakfast at 6:00 a.m. She also shared this joy with her brother, creating cherished memories of laughter and song. Her hobbies included bargain-hunting at yard sales, repairing items, and reselling them—always with her signature humor and charm.

She is survived by her loving children, George, Frank Jr., Rosa, and Dolores, 14

grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-great-grandchild, all of whom carry forward her legacy of strength, love, and unity.

Emelia will forever be remembered for her joyful personality, contagious laughter, sharp wit, and the fierce love she had for her family. Her life was a testament to resilience, compassion, and the enduring power of a woman who never backed down from hard work.

She was, and always will be, our Boss Lady.