Eloiza Rosie Melendrez, or as she was affectionately known, Wizzy, graced this earth from October 13, 1954, until May 31, 2026. Born and departed in the charming locale of Ogden, Utah, Eloiza practiced the honorable and often underappreciated career of homemaking. Yes, while some were busy chasing flashy jobs and careers, Wizzy was perfecting the art of making a house a home—whether you wanted one or not.

She was a woman of contrasts. On one hand, she was the sweetest soul if you happened to be in her good graces. On the other, if you weren’t quite in her inner circle, she made sure you didn’t miss that memo. Subtlety was not her thing, and those who knew her—or survived her hospitality—knew exactly where they stood.

Wizzy had a special fondness for those who dragged themselves away from their undoubtedly busier lives to visit her. Spending time with family who made the effort, no matter how infrequent, was one of her treasured pastimes. Such moments were the rare jewels that likely made the hardships of her homemaking empire worthwhile. She also loved spending time with her dogs, her babies, they meant the world to her!

Her desire before she passed was simple and heartfelt: she just wanted to feel loved and accepted. And who wouldn’t want that after a long journey through life marked by a particularly direct form of love? She’s probably rolling her eyes somewhere, but let’s just hope she found that feeling.

Eloiza is survived by her devoted living family: Reynaldo Paredes, Bella (Fernando) Sanchez, Ramona (Aurelio) Ramirez, Elvira Melendrez, Cruzita Saenz, and a bunch of nieces and nephews who no doubt remember her as distinctly as anyone could. The family would love to show appreciation to Jason, who without his help she would have struggled just a little bit more. She joins her dearly departed parents, Victoriano and Nicolasa Melendrez, as well as her siblings Victoria, Delia, Victoriano, Juan, Guadalupe, and Manuel Melendrez, also her favorite nephew Pete!—each of whom must have had their own beautifully complicated relationship with Wizzy.

Her legacy? A lifetime devoted to her family and the home she ruled with an iron, albeit sweet, fist. Goodbye, Wizzy—you’ve left behind memories as vivid as your personality, and a void that will undoubtedly be filled with less colorful characters.

Funeral services will be held Friday, June 12th at 10:00 AM, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 514 24th St, Ogden, Utah 84401. A viewing will be held the night before, Thursday, June 11th, from 6-8 PM, at Leavitt's Mortuary and Aultorest Memorial Park, 836 36th St., Ogden, Utah 84403. Interment at Aultorest Memorial Park.