Obituary of Jaelyn Marie Zavala

Jaelyn Marie Zavala (Jae) came to her mother on March 8, 2010 giving her life a purpose and joy that she never knew existed. On October 11, 2014, Jaelyn was granted her angel wings. She was a beautiful little girl that was taken long before her time. Nevertheless, she made sure that her time here was the best four years of our lives. She took every opportunity to bring our family together and her feisty, energetic personality could light up a room. Her family and friends, and their happiness, was her priority and it showed when she would root for the 49ers with mommy and most of the family, the Cowboys when with nana, and could cheer on the Giants no matter who she was with. Her infectious laughter was hard to avoid especially when she made her random funny faces and loved to take pictures. The only thing she refused to share was her mommy, whom she was very over protective of. She would warm your heart by wrapping her little arms around you, giving the biggest, tightest hugs. Nature was her serenity; she couldn't get enough of the beach, park, or just being outdoors. Our little tomboy was a ninja turtle who loved drawing, playing street fighter, wrestling, and soccer. Amongst her favorites were teacups, airplanes, the color blue (also the color of her favorite ninja turtle Leo), and helping out around the house. Her passion for singing often had her singing her way through life's good and bad moments. "Close your eyes and think of something happy" she would sing as she was getting her bandaids removed from her earrings after a soccer game or start rapping when she felt the need. Her intelligence, quick wit and attention to detail were so beyond her years. She could hold a full adult-like conversation and had no problem correcting bad grammar. Her drawings often captured fine details like fingers, facial structure, and defining characteristics. She had a fearless approach of life and never turned down the opportunity to try something new. Her strong will and independence had her doing things all by herself, so quick to tell anyone offering help "No No No, I can do it!", unless she wanted to be spoiled, and then she would say "can you do this for me, you want me to be little don't you?". Our little energizer bunny often kept us up at night begging for one more story, one more movie on netflix, or to play just a little bit longer. We are comforted knowing she will continue to do so in heaven and in our dreams. Jaelyn will be remembered as her mommy's mini me, the only true love of her life. Mommy knows you'll be " chillin". Jaelyn is survived by her mother Jessica Zavala and the Zavala, Barajas, and Hernandez Families. Friends, family, and the community are invited to pay tribute and share memories of the life of our little Ninja Turtle at a memorial service Sunday, October 19, 2014 from 11:00-12:30 at Mission Mortuary, 450 Camino El Estero, Monterey. There will be a private burial for her immediate family following the service. Visit www.missionmortuary.com for condolences and online guestbook.