Miller's Tulare Funeral Home 

Graveside service at North J Cemetery at 11:00 am 

Block A Row J Grave 37

 Melissa Deann Quinn
February 8, 1966 – October 24, 2024
It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Melissa Deann Quinn, 58, of Tulare, California, on October 24, 2024. She was taken from this world world unexpectedly, leaving a hole in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
Born in Porterville, California, on February 8, 1966, Melissa was the youngest daughter of Charles Quinn and Delores Sylver. She was raised with a strong sense of compassion, resilience, and love that would guide her throughout her life.
Melissa graduated from Tulare Union High School in 1984, and later earned an Associate's Degree from West Hills College. She was a dedicated and caring LVN at Kaweah Delta Hospital for several years before shifting her focus to raising her three sons. Later in life, Melissa pursued an interest in law enforcement and criminology, but always returned to her true calling: being a devoted mother.
Melissa married Raymond Rodriguez Garza, and together they created a family built on love, support, and dedication. She took immense pride in the successes of her children and was unwavering in her support of them. Her legacy of love spread to her sons: Raymond Joseph Garza, Micheal Lee Garza, and Charles Lee Garza, as well as her beloved grandchildren: Joseph, Amara, Tarrant, Aiden, and Jaxon.
Above all, Melissa was known for her boundless love and deep commitment to her family. A true "Mama Bear," she fiercely protected her children, ensuring they were raised with strong values and integrity. Her compassion and nurturing spirit extended to everyone she met, and her ability to connect with others made her a light in any room. She was known for her infectious laughter, candid conversations, and her ability to make everyone feel seen and heard. Whether dancing, rollerblading, or discussing her passion for the supernatural, Melissa lived life with zeal, sharing her vibrant personality with all who knew her.
Melissa was a proud Navy Mom, supporting her son, Micheal, who serves in the U.S. submarine force. She was also incredibly proud of all of her sons and how they embraced their roles as fathers and men in the family. Through her strength, sacrifice, and unwavering support, she became an inspiration to those around her. Her life was a testament to resilience, love, and the power of family.
She is survived by her sons: Micheal Lee Garza, Charles Lee Garza, her grandchildren: Joseph, Amara, Tarrant, Aiden, and Jaxon, her father: Charles Quinn, her brother Mitchell Quinn, her sister Michelle Quinn, and countless friends whose lives she touched with her kindness and unwavering spirit.
She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Mack and Emma Sylver, her mother, Delores Quinn, and her beloved son, Raymond Garza.
A visitation will be held on November 25, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Miller’s Tulare Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held the following day, November 26, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Tulare Public Cemetery North, with Monsignor Rick officiating.
Melissa's memory will live on in the hearts of her family and all who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love, strength, and unwavering dedication will continue to inspire all of us. 

Raymond Joseph Garza
April 27, 1986 – October 24, 2024

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Raymond Joseph Garza, affectionately known as RJ, 38, of Tulare, California, on October 24, 2024. Taken too soon, he leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and the unforgettable impact he had on everyone who knew him.

Born on April 27, 1986, in Tulare, California, RJ was the cherished son of Melissa Deann Quinn and Raymond Rodriguez Garza. From a young age, RJ displayed a passion for life, excelling in various fields and becoming known for his incredible talent and unwavering love for his family.

After graduating from Tulare Western High School in 2007, RJ pursued a career in the auto mechanical field, following in his father’s footsteps. He was a skilled mechanic, well-known for his attention to detail and his ability to fix anything that came his way. RJ also worked as a stereo installer in his younger years, gaining a reputation for crafting custom subwoofer boxes for his friends and customers. His talents extended beyond mechanics, as RJ was also an accomplished poet and writer. Several of his poems were published in books and even turned into Hallmark cards, showcasing his creative spirit.

RJ's greatest pride and joy were his three children: Joseph, Amara, and Tarrant. In 2005, RJ welcomed his first son, Joseph Garza, with Jessica Carmona, and later had two more children, Amara and Tarrant, with Cheyenne Mills in 2015 and 2017. Tragically, Cheyenne passed away in 2019, and RJ took on the role of both mother and father, dedicating himself to raising their children with love, stability, and care. His heart and soul were invested in giving them the best childhood he could, and he was known for writing heartfelt poems about his love for Cheyenne and the life they had built together.

RJ was a loving and devoted father who cherished his children above all else. He had a rugged exterior, but those closest to him knew him as a big teddy bear, with a soft heart and a deep love for his family. He was an avid fan of old cartoons, anime, and superhero shows and loved to share those passions with his children, creating special memories that will last a lifetime.

A true family man, RJ's personality was larger than life. He had a magnetic presence and always managed to be the center of attention with his loud voice, quick wit, and infectious humor. He was the family jokester, constantly making others laugh, and he had a unique way of connecting with everyone. Whether it was reminiscing with cousins, challenging his younger brothers, Micheal and Charles, or spending time with his nephews, Aiden and Jaxon, RJ always brought joy and laughter to those around him. His competitive spirit was a constant source of fun in the family, especially in his playful rivalry with his younger brother, Micheal. RJ was also known for his love of trucks and his admiration for the Chevy brand, earning him the affectionate nickname "Chevy Daddy" from many friends and family members.

RJ’s bond with his mother, Melissa, was particularly special. They shared a deep connection, with their personalities and compassion for others alike. Together, they were a force to be reckoned with, always there to support and care for their loved ones.

He is survived by his children: Joseph, Amara, and Tarrant; his father, Raymond Garza; his brothers: Micheal Garza and Charles Garza; his nephews: Aiden and Jaxon; as well as a host of family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of experiencing his radiant personality and infectious laugh.

Preceding RJ in death are his mother, Melissa Quinn; his youngest children's mother, Cheyenne Mills; and his beloved grandmother, Delores Quinn.

A visitation to celebrate RJ's life will be held on November 25, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Miller’s Tulare Funeral Home. A funeral service will take place on November 26, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Tulare Public Cemetery North, with Monsignor Rick officiating.

RJ's memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. His life was marked by his fierce love for his children, his sense of humor, and his ability to make everyone around him feel special. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will remain with us forever.