May 25, 1934 - August 26, 2017

Caroline “Etta” Marie Licht made her transition on Saturday, August 26, 2017. She was born in Los Angeles, CA on May 25, 1934 and was raised in Bell Gardens, CA where she graduated from Bell Gardens High School class of 1952. She was known by Etta, ET, Snookums, Etta Baby and Babunia (polish for Grandmother) and her (shall we say) distinctive laugh.

She is survived by Bob Briley (her love for over 30 years), her daughters: Claudia Licht, married to Michael Paul; and Carol (Licht) Gutierrez, married to Willie Gutierrez. She has 5 grandchildren: Christopher Gutierrez, Ryan Gutierrez and Jillian (Monico) Gutierrez,  Lara (Gutierrez) Marquess and Dylan Marquess; and one great-granddaughter Lorelei Gutierrez.

She resided for the last 30 years on Karmont Avenue located on the Downey/South Gate border. Here she watched out for her older neighbors, organized block get togethers, and started her own paper route by picking up and delivering the Downey Patriot. At last count she had 27 customers that she would deliver to each Friday.

She worked for 42 years with Bank of America as teller, New Accounts Officer, Escrow Officer and was a Supervisor in the Real Estate Service Center. Etta was an active member of many groups like; Calvary Chapel Downey, the South Gate Women’s club, Relay for Life, Stonewood Homeowners board, and Bank America Retirees organization.

A private family graveside service will be held. A community Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 9th at 2 p.m. at Downey First Christian Church 10909 New Street, Downey, CA 90241. In lieu of flowers it is requested that donations in her name be sent to: Alzheimer’s Association, P.O. Box 96011, Washington, D.C. 20090-6011