Rufina Serrano

Age 99 of Newark, Illinois, formerly of Chicago, Illinois, died Sunday, July 5, 2026 at her home.

Born November 28, 1926 in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, Rufina was raised in Mexico until moving to the United States in the 1940's, settling in Chicago. It was there she married Aurelio Serrano and raised their family. A very hard worker, Rufina worked several factory jobs in order to help provide for her family. She enjoyed caring for houseplants and keeping birds at home, particularly canaries. Rufina was a wonderful cook who enjoyed preparing food as a way to show her love and celebrate her heritage. She was a truly wonderful woman who was great at anything she set her mind to, along with a kind and compassionate heart that so many will remember her for.

Survivors include her son, Rafael (Lucy) Serrano of Newark; four grandchildren: Dulce, Rosi, Luis, and Elliot; two great grandchildren: Uriel and Josue; her daughter-in-law, Lupe Fragoso, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Rufina was preceded in death by her parents, and her husband Aurelio; one son, Gilberto Fragoso, and two sisters: Tana and Juanita.

Funeral services will be held at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 600 East Jackson Street, in Morris, Illinois on Monday, July 13, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated with Reverend Jason Stone presiding.

Burial will follow the funeral service at St. Mary Catholic Cemetery, 87th Street and South Hamlin Avenue, in Evergreen Park, Illinois at 12:30 p.m., where Rufina will be laid to rest with her husband.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.FrulandFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Rufina's memorial page online through social media.

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves, Fruland & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory. (815-942-0700)