Elva Leija Lopez, 84, of Star, Idaho passed away peacefully on May 3, 2026 surrounded by the love of her family.

She was born on April 25, 1942 in Weslaco, Texas; the fifth of thirteen children born to Julian (1914-1983) and Ramona Leija (1920-1997). From birth she was raised by her aunt and uncle until she was reunited with her parents and siblings at age seven. In the 1950s, her family moved to Weiser, Idaho. In 1958, Elva met Alejandro Saldivar Lopez. They married on May 4, 1960; an elopement that gave them 66 years of marriage. They had three children together, James “Jim” (deceased 2006), Jeanette and Kami. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend whose love and strength touched everyone. Most who knew her referred to her as simply, Grandma.

Elva worked tirelessly throughout her life to provide and care for her family, always putting others before herself. From a young age, she learned the value of hard work, often working in the onion fields with her family. She carried that strong work ethic with her throughout her life. She later worked for the Migrant Head Start program, before working many years as a medical receptionist and nurse assistant, helping and comforting countless people. She concluded her career at Holy Rosary Hospital, where she worked faithfully until her retirement; later facing lymphoma with resilience and grace.

Elva had many talents and passions throughout her lifetime. She enjoyed crocheting, canning, baking, and creating beautiful floral arrangements while working part-time as a florist. Her hands rarely still, everything she made was filled with love and care. Cooking for her family was one of the many ways she showed her love. To her family, she will always be remembered as the best tortilla maker. Her homemade Texas-style tortillas brought everyone together around the table and filled her home with warmth, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

Above all, she cherished her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her love for her family was unconditional, and the lessons she taught through her strength, faith, and generosity will live on for generations to come.

She is proceeded in death by her beloved son Jim; her son-in-law Lyle Shockey; her parents and several brothers and sisters. She is survived by her husband Alex; daughters Jeanette Lopez Shockey and Kami (Mark) Schmitt; daughter-in-law Paula Lopez; her seven grandchildren: Ryan, Couri, Tyler, Stephanie, Courtney, Parker and Graciella; several great grandchildren and siblings including her youngest sister, Hilda (Andrew) Camacho, with whom she shared an unbreakable bond.

Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort knowing she is at peace in the presence of our Heavenly Father. Her devotion to God was shown through daily prayer and an abiding love for her faith. She will forever remain in our hearts and prayers.

The family would like to thank all those who supported and cared for her during her last days with us, especially the kindhearted nurses from Enhabit Home Health and Hospice.

A funeral service to celebrate her life will be held at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at Still Water Hollow, under the direction of Bowman Funeral Directors, followed by private burial at Dry Creek Cemetery.

May flights of angels sing thee to thy rest, Grandma.