Erlinda Rose Godinez, a remarkable woman whose life was marked by generosity, adventure, and unwavering devotion to her faith and family, entered into rest on June 14, 2026, in Cleveland, Texas. Born in Billings, Montana, on April 5, 1948, Erlinda’s journey was one of extraordinary accomplishments and heartfelt connections.

A proud graduate of San Jose State University, class of 1986, Erlinda’s career was both impressive and influential. She served as an Executive Administrator for Kaiser Permanente, working closely with the chief physician responsible for the area, a role that showcased her exceptional organizational skills and dedication to her co-workers. She leaves behind many dear friends at Kaiser, where she worked for nearly 20 years. Beyond her work in healthcare administration, Erlinda demonstrated her entrepreneurial spirit by joining Candence, a Bay Area tech start-up company that went on to be one of the biggest successes in the Silicon Valley. Before her time in the tech and healthcare sector, her passion for communication and community outreach led her to become the Executive Editor and Chief of El Observador, a Hispanic newspaper giving voice and visibility to the Hispanic community across the state of California. Erlinda was also actively engaged in the La Raza movement, championing the Hispanic community with passion and commitment.

Erlinda was more than her professional achievements; she was an extremely giving person with an adventurous soul. Her love for her Savior Jesus Christ was profound, and she was known as a faithful servant, deeply involved in her church community. She traveled the world engaging in missionary work, including impactful humanitarian service in Madagascar and Brazil, showing her heart extended far beyond her immediate surroundings. In her later years, she joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where she served as a local ward missionary. Her love of missionary work and service led her to seek further service opportunities, including serving at the Bishops’ Storehouse, compassionately assisting families in need.

Her love for family was central to her life. Christmas was her beloved holiday, a time when she expressed her thoughtfulness by tailoring gifts to each individual’s personality and needs, a testament to her intimate care and consideration. She used her talents and gifts to make many of her Christmas gifts, including specially sewn blankets and expertly quilted decorations for her immediate and extended family. Her sons will always remember Christmas as a special time to think of others and demonstrate love thanks to her example. Erlinda also loved to bake and make treats with her grandchildren. She patiently and lovingly taught them how to make her speciality: delicious orange scones with cranberries and white chocolate morsels. It was a treat for her family whenever she baked her special scones to be shared with the entire family. Her love for family and her talent for gift-giving even extended to her sons’ dogs; she loved all of God’s creations.

She was an avid hiker and camper, finding joy and peace at Yosemite, Big Basin, and Big Sur. While her two sons sometimes dreaded the long, arduous hikes as children, the time spent with their mom instilled a love in them for the outdoors. Yet another gift she gave.

Most touching of all, Erlinda devoted herself to living with and caring for her mother with great devotion over the last ten years of her mother’s life, reflecting the depth of her love and sense of responsibility.

Erlinda is survived by her cherished children, Jamal Godinez and Juan Godinez, along with Juan’s wife, Whitney. Her bond with her sisters, Irene Godinez and Connie Margaret Ellis, remained close and loving throughout her life. She leaves behind a beautiful legacy in her grandchildren: Janaye and her husband Adrian Cabrera; Janessa Fafitti-Smith and her husband Derek; Mecca Drayton and her husband Kyre; Raquel Godinez and her fiancé Joey; Liliana Godinez; Jesse Godinez; Elias Godinez; and Rosette Godinez. Erlinda also leaves behind a legacy of great-children. Alongside them are many other loving family members and treasured friends who carry forward the warmth and generosity she so freely gave.

Erlinda was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Jesus Godinez and Consuelo Margaret Flores, her brother Jesse Godinez, and Rachel Trujillo, whose memories live on in her heart and the hearts of those who knew her.

Through all the chapters of her life, Erlinda Rose Godinez remained a beacon of kindness, strength, and devotion. Her legacy is one of love extended through family, friends, faith, and community—a legacy that will endure in every soul she touched. As we remember Erlinda, we celebrate a life beautifully lived, a fully open heart, and a spirit that will forever inspire.

All arrangements to be handled under the trusted care of Neal Funeral Home.