Avelina Madrid Lopez passed away peacefully on May 29, 2026, in Kansas City, Missouri, at the age of 96. She lived a long and meaningful life marked by resilience, grace, and unwavering devotion to her family.

Born on July 29, 1929, Avelina was a woman of strength, faith, and deep-rooted values. She carried herself with quiet dignity and a warm spirit that made everyone around her feel welcome. Her kind heart, gentle nature, and radiant smile left a lasting impression on all who knew her. She had a natural elegance about herself, often remembered for her stylish clothes and the warmth she brought into every room.

Avelina was a proud and hardworking woman. She and her late husband, John, owned and operated Lopez's Mexican Foods on 39th Street until 1977, where she shared her culture and love of food with the community. After closing the business, she continued her strong work ethic at The Jones Store Co. in downtown Kansas City, where she remained until her retirement.

Family was the center of Avelina's life. She surrounded herself with love and took great pride in the generations she helped nurture. She is survived by her two sons, John Lopez (wife Susan) and Bernard Lopez (wife Julie). She was a cherished grandmother to six grandchildren, a beloved great-grandmother to nine great-grandchildren, and a treasured great-great-grandmother to three. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and their extended families.

Avelina was preceded in death by her daughter, Yolanda Witt; her husband, John U. Lopez; her parents, Andrew and Antonia Madrid; and her siblings, Dewey Madrid, Dora Salazar, Cecelia Lopez, Lucy Medina, and Andrew Lopez Jr.

Her legacy is one of love, strength, and devotion. She will be remembered for the warmth she gave so freely, the family she held so closely, and the life she lived with grace and purpose

The family of Avelina Madrid Lopez wishes to express their sincere gratitude for your prayers, love, and support during this time. Your kindness and presence mean more than words can express.

Services will be held on Monday, June 15, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. followed by the Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that memorial donations be made to either: Ascend Hospice and Palliative Care 783 NE Anderson Lane, Lee's Summit, MO 64064; or BloodCancerUnited.org (formerly Leukemia & Lymphoma Society) online or P.O. Box 22324, New York, NY 10087

Condolences may be offered at www.passantinobros.com