Juanita Cariaga-Felix

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Juanita (Janie) Cariaga-Felix, 77, of Placentia, CA, who passed away on January 26, 2025, peacefully after her bi-weekly session of dialysis.

A beacon of unwavering friendship and kindness, Janie has left an enduring mark on the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Janie was born on July 22, 1947, to Martin and Lydia Cariaga in Rio Hondo, Texas. As the youngest of six children, she grew up with a strong sense of family and devotion. After graduating from Harlingen High School in 1966, she went on to study at the Texas Woman’s University achieving a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1971.

Janie’s lifelong passion for education began soon after her graduation. She dedicated over three decades of her life to counseling and teaching, touching the lives of many students and colleagues. During her tenure, she continued to learn and earned her Master of Education in 1987. After retiring in 2004 Janie left Texas behind her to fulfill her and Ruben’s dream of being close to the kids in California. Her love for teaching continued into her retirement. For the next 20 years, she earned her CA state credentials and spent her retirement starting another career in education. It was said “She always had an insatiable desire to teach and learn”.

In the early 80’s, she met Ruben Felix, however, it was not until 1992 when they reconnected and then married in 1993. Although Janie did not have children of her own, she was blessed with four adult children, Donna Bailey (William Bailey), Ruben Felix, Jr. (April Felix), Regina M. Felix and Renee M. Dellar. Additionally, she adored her four grandchildren – Joey (36), Dellanee’ (34), Danielle (14) and Jacob (12) and her love for them was boundless.

 Janie also enjoyed crafts, gardening and shopping.

Janie was predeceased by her husband, Ruben (2002) her parents Martin and Lydia, her sisters Maria Guadalupe Ratliff and Maria Edelmira Wert and her brothers Jesus Cariaga and Martin Cariaga, Jr. She is survived by her brother Alfredo Cariaga of Hempstead, Texas, numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Services will be held at St. Edward’s Catholic Church – 417 W. Grand Blvd., Corona CA on February 11 at 10am. A viewing will precede the service at 9:30 for 30 minutes. Burial will follow at Sunnyslope Cemetery – 1125 Rimpau, Corona CA. Reception will immediately follow at the American Legion Hall – 1557 Yorba St., Corona CA. Flowers may be sent to St. Edward’s Church the day of services.