Leona Maldonado

Leona Elizebath “Nona” Maldonado, passed away peacefully on June 18, 2025 in Ukiah, CA. She was born in Santa Rosa on June 18, 1949, to Richard & Tilly Billy, Sr. She attended Santa Rosa High and then went on to Beauty College.

In 1970, she gave birth to her first born, Eric Barela. This was the same time the Sonoma County Indian Health Project, Inc. was founded by her sister Beverly Rodriguez, where Leona actively was a part of this monumental clinic for the Native Community.

Later, Kevin and Julian “Mijo” Maldonado were born. Leona lived her life for her children and legacies. She volunteered and faithfully served her boy’s little league days, doing fundraisers and working in the snack shack. Next to her side was her best pal, Betty Jean Arterberry, together at every game.

In 1984, she gave birth to Andre Maldonado. She was so proud of her four sons, who she loved with all her heart. On her free time, she loved watching her SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS. She loved yard sales, cooking for family gatherings, and loved decorating for events. She was a seamstress and loved making numerous costumes and blankets. She loved going to church; trusted God and was a faithful prayer warrior.

She will be deeply loved and will be dearly missed. The viewing will be on June 30, 2025 at Daniels Chapel of the Roses, Santa Rosa, CA from 1:00-5:00 p.m. Wake will be on June 30, 2025 at the Hopland Tribal Gym, Hopland CA at 7:00 p.m. Funeral will be on July 1, 2025, 12:00 p.m., at the Hopland Tribal Gym, Hopland, CA.