Elvera "Vera" Sierra

Elvera Sierra, 88, passed away on Monday, May 8, 2017, at her home in Whittier, California. Viewing will take place from 6-7pm on Tuesday, May 16th, at St. Gregory the Great Church, 13935 Telegraph Road, Whittier, California. A Vigil will immediately follow at 7pm. Mass will be celebrated at 9am the next day, Wednesday, May 17th, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, 8545 Norwalk Blvd., Whittier, California, with interment to follow at Resurrection Cemetery in Rosemead, California.

Vera grew up and went to school in Los Angeles, graduating from Lincoln High School. After high school she met and married the love of her life, Alex Sierra. They married and made their home in Los Angeles before settling in Whittier to raise their five children.

A devout Catholic, Vera was very involved in her parish, Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Whittier. She sang in the church choir for decades and also served the church by counting the offerings. She was loved and respected by many, most of who referred to her affectionately as, Grandma.

Outside of spending time with her family and serving at the church, Vera enjoyed dancing, cooking, and, of course, VEGAS! The wife of a World War II Army Vet, Vera also enjoyed going to annual reunions with her husband. Alex and his comrades were like family, and they greatly enjoyed getting together. She especially enjoyed traveling to Europe for the 50th year reunion.

She will be remembered for her bubbly personality and her gift to gab. To know her was to love her! A real pistol, you always knew what she was thinking. She pulled no punches, freely speaking her mind and offering her wisdom. She will also be remembered for her quips, one of which was, Dont get old, it sucks! Though sad to see her go, Vera is no longer old.

Vera is survived by four children, Patricia (Robert) Aguilar, Alexander (Debbie) Sierra, John Sierra, and Valerie Sierra; her sister, Mary Lou Frasca; 10 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. Her husband, Alex, and her daughter, Ann, preceded her in death.