Dolores Serrano Acosta, 98, of Granite City, Illinois, passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, October 24, 2026.

Dolores was born on January 16, 1928, in Granite City, Illinois, to Josepha Medel and Ramon Serrano. She attended school through the eighth grade before leaving her education to meet life’s responsibilities. Her desire to learn, however, never faded. With determination and perseverance, Dolores returned to her studies and proudly earned her GED on May 29, 1997, at the age of 69. This achievement was a testament to her strength and determination and remained one of her proudest accomplishments.

Dolores was active in her community as a member of the VFW Women’s Auxiliary and a lifetime member of the Mexican Honorary Commission, both in Granite City, Illinois. Throughout her life, Dolores found joy in caring for others. She especially enjoyed her final job as a caregiver for the elderly, where her kindness and compassion made a meaningful difference in the lives of those she cared for.

Above all, Dolores treasured her family. She loved spending time with her children and grandchildren and especially delighted in visits from the newest babies in the family. These precious moments brought her great joy. Her love for her family was at the center of her life, and the memories she created will be cherished for generations to come.

Dolores was preceded in death by her parents, Josepha and Ramon Serrano; her sisters, Conception and Theresa; her brothers, Antonio and Frank; and her grandson, Aaron Caudill. She is survived by her six children: Dolores (Jr.) Wheatley, Jo Ann Acosta, Christina (William) Hull, Elizabeth (Norman) Paterson, Connie Acosta, and John David Acosta. She is also survived by her loving grandchildren: Michelle (Rodney) Sampson, James (Amanda) Caudill, Karie (CJ) Kinnunen, Nikki (Patrick) Crader, Christie (Anthony) Parker, Antonio (Jayne) Hull, Christopher (Brandi) Widel, Monica (Freddie) Jaramillo, Matthew (Stephanie) Caudill, Iain (Dania) Paterson, Christine Paterson, Brittany Acosta, and Leon Acosta.

Dolores was also blessed with many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in her heart. She took great joy in watching her family grow through the generations and especially loved visits from the littlest members of the family. Their smiles, laughter, and precious moments together brought her immeasurable happiness. Being surrounded by so many generations of family was one of her life’s greatest blessings.

Dolores leaves behind a legacy of strength, kindness, perseverance, and unconditional love. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her, but her memory will live on through the many generations of family she cherished so dearly.

A Celebration of Life honoring Dolores will be held on Saturday, October 31, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00p.m. at the Knights of Columbus, 4225 Old Alton Road, Granite City, Illinois 62040, in the Santa Maria Room, located next to the bar. Family and friends are warmly invited to gather, share cherished memories, and celebrate Dolores’s wonderful life.

The family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to Sue’s Corner Christmas for Kids, helping bring Christmas joy to children in need. To make a donation, please contact Chris Widel at 618-823-7445. Donations may be made through Venmo or Apple Pay.