Dolores “Lola” Iniguez
Dolores “Lola” Iniguez, affectionately known as Jamma, passed away at the age of 72 on September 1, 2024, in San Jose, CA from complications related to Lewy Body Dementia. Born in Santa Barbara, CA, on December 26, 1951, Lola spent her entire life in her hometown before relocating to San Jose in March 2024 for her daughter to care for her.
Lola loved her family deeply, a love that was magnified with the birth of her grandson, Ronan, who became the center of her world. She would move heaven and earth for her daughter, Cynthia, and grandson. Nothing made her smile more than being with them and seeing them happy. Everyone loved Lola and she loved everyone. She was welcoming, social and willing to help anybody who was in need. Her laugh and humor were infectious. Her hobbies included travel, watching movies, bowling, attending theatre, celebrating Fiesta, and enjoying dinners with her many friends.
Lola dedicated her career to serving the State of California, working across various departments including the Employment Development Department, Franchise Tax Board, and Community Care Licensing. Her commitment to public service was paralleled by her devotion to her community. A long-time volunteer at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, Lola contributed as a choir member, lector, confirmation leader, and wedding coordinator. Her service extended to the Alzheimer’s Board following her mother’s diagnosis, highlighting her compassionate spirit.
She is survived by her daughter, Cynthia Kavanagh; son-in-law, Stephen Kavanagh; grandson, Ronan Kavanagh; sister-in-law, Lynda Iniguez; nieces and nephew, Jasmin Iniguez, Veronica Flores, and Paul Padilla; and dog, Tommy Lasorda. Lola was preceded in death by her parents, Taurino and Victoria Iniguez; brother, John Iniguez; and the dog only a mother could love, Lucky.
A Rosary will be held on Thursday, September 19, 2024, at Welch-Ryce-Haider in Goleta at 7 PM. A Funeral Mass is scheduled at Our Lady of Sorrows Church in Santa Barbara for Friday, September 20 at 10 AM, followed by burial at Calvary Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Lola’s memory can be made to the Friendship Center of Montecito & Alzheimer’s Association. The family extends their gratitude to the loving staff at Friendship Center and all her caretakers, especially Mayra (Clarita), Leti, and Nikki.