Soledad "Sally" Guzman

Saginaw, Michigan

Beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend enjoyed her last sunset on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at the University of Michigan Hospital, with her family at her side. At the age of 75 years. 

The daughter of the late Sotero and Soledad (Lopez) Balcazar, Sally was born on December 27, 1948, in Mexico City, Mexico. She obtained her degree in Social Work at The Universidad de Mexico, and later pursued her passion for education by earning her Bachelor’s in Arts from Saginaw Valley State University with a Major in Elementary Education alongside Minors in Natural Science and English. She married the love of her life, Jose Guzman, on March 22, 1971. He survives her. Sally’s career path led her through roles at Vlasic Pickle Factory, Hoffman Farms, and as a devoted teacher within the Saginaw Public Schools for many years of loyal and dedicated service. Sally found comfort and community within the congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses. She loved to read, sewing, and nurturing flowers and gardens. Her simple pleasure was browsing through her favorite “little store” while thrift shopping. Above all, Sally cherished the time with her family, especially her grandchildren. 

Surviving besides her husband, Jose Guzman, are their daughter and son: Diana (Gerardo) Gonzalez, Alex Guzman (Selena Brown); grandchildren: Marissa (Manuel) Hill, Karianna (Isaiah) Manriquez, Jessica Gonzalez (Calvin Callahan), AJ Guzman, Izabella Gonzalez, Jherzzie Guzman, Amaria Guzman; great-grandchildren: Gabryela, Haden, Maddox, Mateo; sisters and brothers: Jose-Maria Balcazar, Dolores Marin, Olga Raquel Contreras, Aurelio (Vicky) Balcazar, Arturo (Sulema) Balcazar, Victor Manuel (Reina) Balcazar, Hector (Consepcion) Balcazar. Also surviving are many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and loved ones. Sally was preceded in death by her sister, Amelia (Guadalupe) Balcazar; sister-in-law, Consuelo Balcazar; brother-in-law, Brigido Contreras. 

In accordance with Sally’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will take place from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. on Friday, May 24, 2024, at the Knights of Columbus Lounge, 2280 Williamson Road, Saginaw, MI 48601. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to American Cancer Society.