Sara Marie Avila

Sara Marie Avila, age 81, died unexpectedly Wednesday, March 20, 2019, at Providence St. Mary Medical Center.

She was born in Gering, Nebraska on June 22, 1937.  Her parents were Joe Escamilla, Sr., and Rita Susana Sabala.  She was one of 21 children to one father and one mother.

She married David Avila Sr. on October 13, 1956.  They were married for 23 years. Six children were born to them.

Sara had a compassionate and giving heart.  She always knew who needed love and help and willingly gave to make another life better.  Her love for the Lord was evident.  She prayed often not only for her children, she prayed for her extended family, and friends.  Her hobbies were never for herself.  She looked to spend her time in service for others often visiting homes and nursing homes.  She cared for a number of elderly people until their passing.  In younger years it was her home relatives congregated at for holiday fellowship knowing a buffet would be set for all to enjoy.

She is survived by her former husband and six children: David (Sandy) Avila Sr., WA, David Avila Jr. (deceased), Gabriel Avila, WA, Solomon (Lydia) Avila,

WA, Carol (Ron) Elder, WA, Diana (Sid) Ghaffari, MD, Nina Carter, WA; three sisters: Victoria (Tony) Serrano, WA, Bernice (Fred) Herrera, CO, Rebecca Herrera, CO; two brothers: Samuel (Josie) Escamilla, NE, Daniel (Nohemi) Escamilla, CA; 15 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorial service will be Friday, March 29, 3 p.m., Village Seventh-day Adventist Church, 715 SE 12 ^th St, College Place.

Memorial contributions may be made to SDA DORCAS through the Herring Groseclose Funeral Home, 315 W. Alder, Walla Walla, WA 99362.