Linda Esparza

In Loving Memory of

Ermalinda “Linda” Esparza

January 14, 1954- January 31, 2026

Ermalinda “Linda” Esparza was born in Kansas City, Kansas, and raised in Kansas City, Missouri, where she built a life rooted in love, family, and community. She was the beloved daughter of Bibiano Esparza and Josephine Cortinas Buitron, both of whom preceded her in death.

Linda was married to Armando Chavez, and preceded in death by her beloved ex-husband Bernardino “Nino” Parra. Together they shared a life filled with family, laughter, and love.

Linda endured what seemed like a never-ending battle for the past ten years, facing each challenge with strength and perseverance. Throughout her journey, her faith remained steadfast, and the Lord was by her side every step of the way. She is now at peace, reunited with Him, just as she had confidently shared with us how her journey would unfold.

Linda loved listening to oldies, traveling, & cooking for friends & family. There was something about shopping at the segunda, turning trash into treasure, she absolutely loved decorating her home with whatever she added her touch to. She was cherished for her witty personality and her wisdom that came straight from the heart. Her sometimes too direct guidance, was always rooted in love.

She was full of life and love. Linda danced freely, laughed loudly, and had a gift for making everyone around her laugh as she was a jokester. She loved connecting with everyone she met. With a heart as generous as it was loving, she never hesitated to offer a warm plate of food or a place to stay, welcoming all without judgment. In every season of life and in every way she was known, she remained wholly and beautifully herself—authentic, unapologetic, and true.

Linda took pride in looking good from head to toe. As she always said, “If you look good, you feel good.” And she truly lived by those words. As much as her beauty stamped our mind, her inner beauty has most definitely been embedded in our hearts forever.

She is survived by her siblings Juanita Salinas, Patricia Amparan, and Rose “Cha Cha” Nuñez. She was preceded in death by her brothers Andres C. Esparza and Carlos C. Esparza.

She leaves behind her children Jesse Lopez (Beatrice), Elisa Lopez, and Patricia Velo (Manny). She was preceded in death by her sons John Joe Lopez, and Bernardino Parra Jr.

She shared a deep and special bond with her grandchildren, who meant the world to her and brought her immense joy - which she’s shown in many different ways throughout the years. Jesse Lopez II, Armando Contreras Jr. (Angelica), Lorena Lopez (Rob), Briana Chavez (Devin), JoAnna Chavez (Mike), Jesus Velo Jr., Arturo Velo (Vanessa), Maricela Parra, Delicia Velo, and Emilio Parra.

She was also blessed with great-grandchildren Jaleesa Hinojos Lopez, Laila Lopez, Maximiliano Contreras, Leonardo Contreras, Rico Diaz Lopez, Paloma Contreras, Jo’Liyah Ford, Analiya Velo, and Bri’Ella Miller, each of whom brought her so much happiness.

Linda’s legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched with her honesty, generosity, humor, and unconditional love. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Services entrusted to Larkin & Garcia Funeral Care.