Elmwood Funeral Chapel & Crematory

Visitation Information

Christine M. Nava

Passed away on February 9, 2026

Christine M. Nava (née Mendoza), age 76, late of South Chicago, born July 24, 1949 passed away on February 9, 2026.

Beloved mother of Joshua (Sandra) Nava. Loving grandmother of Kassandra, Joshua Jr. (Luz), and Michael Nava. Devoted great-grandmother of Noah Nava. Dear sister of Henry (Sally) Mendoza, Artie (Cathy) Mendoza, Laura Mendoza, Sylvia Mendoza, Mary T. (Ricardo) Quiroz, and Judy Mendoza. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. Christine was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Carmen Mendoza.

Christine dedicated her life to the field of education. She was a patient, compassionate, and devoted teacher who inspired generations of students. Through her kindness and perseverance, she helped many children overcome academic challenges and develop confidence in their abilities. Former students often returned to express their gratitude for the lasting impact she made on their lives.

In addition to her work in the classroom, Christine generously tutored family members across several generations, always encouraging a love of learning. Throughout her career, she served students in Chicago at Our Lady of Guadalupe School, William King School, J.N. Thorp School, George Pullman School, and Philip Sheridan School. She was especially committed to bilingual education and to assisting students who struggled with reading. Her dedication and natural gift for teaching left a meaningful and lasting legacy.

She was also active in service to the Latino community, working with Proyecto Venceremos, United Migrant Opportunity Services, and other organizations. She assisted in organizing community events and supported the Suzuki Music Program in South Chicago.

Christine was the author of Poetry from Chicago. She enjoyed the theater, music, and spending time with family and friends. Known for her generosity and hospitality, she took great joy in cooking and sharing meals with loved ones.

Christine will be remembered for her steadfast dedication to education, her service to the community, and her deep love for her family. She will be dearly missed.

Visitation Thursday, February 12, 2026 from 3:00 – 8:00 pm.  Funeral Services Friday, February 13, 2026 with prayers at 11:15 am from the Elmwood Chapel 11200 S. Ewing Ave. Chicago to Our Lady of Guadalupe Church.  Mass of Christian Burial 12:00 noon.  Interment private.  For more information 773-731-2749

Funeral

Prayers at Elmwood Chapel
Friday, February 13, 2026 - 11:15 am

Funeral Mass:
Our Lady of Guadalupe Church
3200 East 91st Street
Chicago, Illinois 60617
Friday, February 13, 2026 - 12:00 pm

Interment:
Private

Visitation Location

East Side
11200 S. Ewing Ave
Chicago, IL 60617
(773) 731-2749

Map

Visitation Information

Thursday, February 12, 2026 - 3:00 pm until 8:00 pm

Condolences
"Josh, and to all your family, our sincere condolences In this time of grief and loss. Your Mom shared with many with her gift of sharing and teaching. Peace to your Mom, Carmen, Ann, Babe!"
- Carmen Velasquez
February 11, 2026 6:18 pm
"So sorry for your loss."
- Jean rohr
February 13, 2026 12:58 pm
"Over the years I have thought of Chris, even though we lost touch several years ago. We met in grammar school at OLG and remained friends through HS even though we went to different schools. I greatly admired that she became an educator, an author and a voice for the community and culture she grew up in and loved. Though we had virtually no contact for many years, her passing leaves a void in my heart, but I will cherish the sweet memories of walking to school in the mornings, stopping in the little family store on the way home, where her favorite treat was chips with hot sauce whenever we put together our few cents to buy and share a bag. Perhaps Martha Silva recalls those innocent days! Like many, especially her immediate family, I am sad, but not without the blessed hope of the resurrection where we will meet again, never to be separated from our loved ones. To Joshua who I never met, to Henry, Artie and sisters, may you grieve as someone who loved Christine dearly."
- Irma Alicea
February 14, 2026 5:09 pm
Candles Lit