On January 4, 2025, at 10:20 a.m., surrounded by her family, Penny Joy LeAlcala peacefully ended her earthly journey. She found her path back to her beloved husband, Alfonso "Poncho" LeAlcala, the love of her life and devoted partner for 65 beautiful years.

Born on October 28, 1939, at 10:10 p.m. in Whittier, California, Penny came into the world as a small but mighty force, weighing just two pounds. Her resilience and determination were evident from the start, traits that carried her through a life filled with love, laughter, and incredible accomplishments.

Penny was the cherished daughter of Edwin and Audrey Eckels and a beloved sister to Carol, Sandra, Eddie, and Mark. She graduated from Sweetwater High School in 1957 and later pursued her passion for nursing, earning her LVN in the early 1970s and proudly became a Registered Nurse shortly after, making the Dean's List at City College.

Her career as a nurse began at University Hospital, and she retired after more than 40 years of dedicated service at Kaiser Permanente. Penny was a true healer, providing compassionate care and touching countless lives with her skill and empathy. She loved helping families bring their babies into the world.

Above all, Penny's greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her children: Alfonso LeAlcala III (Kristi), Jacquelyn Valdivia (Michael), Laura LeAlcala, Leah LeAlcala, Christian LeAlcala, and Michaelangelo LeAlcala (Kimberly). Her legacy proudly lives on through her grandchildren: Renee Lewis (Brandon), Jennicca Taylor, Sarah Meyer (Tjad), Matthew Dodge (Katharine), Leah "Gabby" Dodge-Torres (Jose), Michelangelo "Mico" LeAlcala II,  Victoria LeAlcala, Alfonso IV "Jake" LeAlcala, Vincenzo "Nick" LeAlcala, Brenna LeAlcala, Rachel LeAlcala, as well as 10 great-grandchildren.

Penny's words of wisdom, "Whatever you do, do it 100%," remain guiding lights for her family. Her sharp wit, nurturing heart, and unshakable strength were the foundation of her home, and her influence will ripple through generations to come. Penny's unwavering love, laughter, and wisdom will forever be a beacon of light for all who knew her.

Funeral Services

A celebration of Penny's life will be held: Saturday, January 25, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.

at Calvary Chapel Santee ,

located at 10920 Summit Avenue, Santee, CA 92071.

A light lunch will follow services.

In Penny's honor, the family encourages the support causes dear to Penny's heart. Donations in her name may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, The Tunnel to Towers Foundation, The San Diego Zoo, or The San Diego Zoo Safari Park.