Carol Faye Cantu

December 14, 1950 - January 7, 2019

Carol Faye Cantu, 68, of Loma Rica, California, entered Heaven's gates on January 7, 2019, after a long and brave fight with cancer. Carol was born December 14, 1950, in Merced, California, to James and Irene Strickland. She was a long time resident of the Yuba-Sutter area. Carol was the loving wife of Joseph Cantu Jr., having married him in 1989. She was a homemaker and full time caregiver to her disabled son Patrick. She was a dedicated mother first and foremost, raising seven children. She also cherished her role as a grandmother and great-grandmother. She loved to cook, enjoyed interior decorating, adored the outdoors and all things nature. She had a green thumb, creating the most beautiful and vibrant gardens, turning them into a place of peace and serenity where endless talks and laughter will surely be missed. Carol had a heart of gold, was genuine, compassionate, caring and loving. Even amidst the biggest fight of her life, she never stopped smiling and putting others before herself. She never gave up hope and battled on with sheer determination. She was a true warrior. "Mom, you have given so much and never asked for anything in return. Thank you for always being there for us, loving us, guiding us, forgiving us and showing us what true strength really is. It is because of you that we are able to face our own adversities with such ease. You have more than earned your angel wings and are no longer in pain. You will truly be missed. We love you mama. You were absolutely amazing" Carol is survived by her husband, Joseph, six children and their spouses, Scott (Antonia), Atthina (Barry), Kimberly (Charles), Julia, James, Joey (Sarah), her father, James, 22 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, 2 sisters, 5 brothers, their spouses, along with a large extended family. She is preceded in death by her son, Patrick and her mother, Irene. There will be a graveside service at Sutter Cemetary on Thursday, January 17, 2019, at 1:00 pm.