Emilia “Chata” Espudo Cano

Emilia “Chata” Espudo Cano, 81, passed away on February 2, 2021. Along with Our Lord, she was reunited with her beloved husband Edward, son Michael, and many other family members she loved and missed. Our sister, mother, grandmother and great grandmother was born in Marfa, Texas on May 30, 1939 to Catarina Sanchez and Manuel Espudo and was one of 5 children. She married Edward Cano in 1957 and they lovingly (but firmly!) raised their 5 children after coming to Phoenix in 1959.

She loved to cook and mostly importantly loved her family. She made it a point to help others, whether it was bringing in family to live with her, babysitting, or just having a smile and a cup of coffee ready when someone dropped by. She had a TEXAS STRONG Catholic faith. She took pride in her family’s growth in their faith and fulfillment of their sacraments brought her great joy. She was a proud Guadalupana, Cursillista, and a member of St Catherine’s grievance group.

She leaves behind her children Edward III, Priscilla, Robert (Sarah), and Charles (Mary), 14 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, 3 brothers, 1 sister, many nieces, nephews, and many close friends. The viewing will take place for both Emilia and her son Michael on Thursday, February 18, 2021 from 4:00 – 7:00 P.M. (rosary at 6pm) at St. Thomas the Apostle Church, 2312 E. Campbell Ave, Phoenix, AZ. The Funeral Mass will also be celebrated at Saint Thomas the Apostle Church on Friday, February 19, 2021 at 10:30 A.M. Burial for Emilia and Michael will immediately follow at St. Francis Cemetery.

All are welcome but social distancing will be strictly enforced (please wear a mask). For those unable to attend, the viewing and mass will be available through the STA live-stream website: https://www.staphx.org/