Epifania Palacios ("Granny Fanny") Obregon

Epifania “Fanny” Palacios Obregon, 93, of Grand Forks, passed away peacefully on November 19, 2024.

Born on January 10, 1931, in rural Cameron, Texas, to Apolonia Ubando and Evaristo Palacios, Fanny was baptized on December 14, 1931, at Blessed Sacrament Church in Cameron. From a young age, Fanny demonstrated strength, resilience, and a tireless work ethic. With only a fourth-grade education, she joined her mother, siblings, cousins, and friends as migrant workers, traveling seasonally from San Antonio, Texas, to the fields of Oslo and Warren, Minnesota, harvesting potatoes and sugar beets. Back in Texas, she labored in cotton fields—experiences that shaped her into the strong, hardworking woman so many admired.

Fanny met Jesse Obregon while working in Oslo, and the two married in Warren on August  28th, 1953. They later settled in Grand Forks and raised five children together. Though they divorced in 1971, their connection remained a meaningful part of her life along with a continued bond with the extended Obregon family, who remained dear to her heart.

Later, she shared a special companionship with Ruben Botello, a dear friend who brought joy and support to her in her later years.

Fanny was a longtime member of the First Church of God and a woman of unwavering faith. When the Church of God closed, she began attending Hope Church, where she continued to grow in her faith. Her family would attend church with her; however, when they couldn’t, she would take the bus or was generously picked up by fellow church members. She was truly grateful for her church family and the kindness they extended to her throughout the years.

She gave back to her community as a Spanish interpreter, supporting immigrants and neighbors whenever needed. She made her living through humble but important work: ironing clothes and dollies, babysitting, working in laundry in San Antonio, and taking on roles at Black’s Bakery, Western Potato, International Coop., and J.R. Simplot, where she proudly walked the picket line and eventually retired in 1996.

A true nurturer, Fanny’s kitchen was the heart of her home. Every Christmas, she prepared angel wings and tamales, a tradition her family eagerly looked forward to. Her homemade tortillas, taco salad, and mini Mexican dishes were always the highlight at church potlucks. She had a gift for cooking and baking that brought people together—her food was love made visible. Her cooking always brought the entire family together for many backyard gatherings, filled with the sounds of Mexican music and joyful crowds of family and friends.

She was also a passionate Elvis Presley fan, proudly collecting memorabilia, clothing, and keepsakes. Her travels to Graceland in Memphis were among her most cherished memories. She also visited California, Las Vegas, South Dakota, Minnesota, Illinois, Texas, Mexico, Kansas, and more, collecting memories along the way. For her 80th birthday, we threw her a surprise party complete with an Elvis impersonator and all. She was so overjoyed by the celebration.

Fanny never drove, but she walked everywhere with her constant companion, her beloved dog Chiquita, always dressed up by her side. Known around town as "the lady with the dressed-up dog," she was a familiar and joyful sight to many. People greeted her with smiles and honks, recognizing the special presence she brought to the streets of Grand Forks.

In the last two and a half years of her life, Fanny moved to Hazen, North Dakota, to be cared for after losing her eyesight and requiring additional help. She spent the final five months of her life in comfort care at Sakakawea Medical Center in Hazen, where she built heartfelt relationships with the caring staff. They lovingly called her “Granny Fanny,” and not only provided her with excellent care—they also became her friends.

She is survived by her four daughters:

·        Rachel, of East Grand Forks, MN (the late Virgil Hager and Rick Powers),

·        Suzanna, of Hazen, ND (the late Roy Hayes),

·        Diana Obregon, of East Grand Forks, MN, and

·        Lisa, of Gilby, ND (the late Edward Sr. Van Winkle);
her sister, Elvira Palacios of San Antonio, Texas;
many nieces, nephews, and cousins;
as well as:

·        7 grandchildren,

·        17 great-grandchildren

·        3 step-great-grandchildren,

·        6 great-great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-step grandchild

Extended family from her father Evaristo Palacios Sr., including one half-brother and six half-sisters.

She is preceded in death by her beloved son, Jesse Obregon Jr., and one grandson, Justin Pigeon; her mother and father; her ex-husband Jesse Obregon Sr.; her special friend Ruben Botello; her sisters Rebecca Juarez and Isabel Cantu; and her brothers Mucio Martinez, Israel Martinez, and Evaristo Palacios Jr.

Lovingly called “Mamacita” by many, Fanny was known for her kindness, strength, and generous heart. She was a friend to everyone she met and a powerful example of faith, perseverance, and love. Her legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched, and she will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, July 21, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at Hope Church, 1601 17th Ave S, Grand Forks, ND.
Visitation begins at 11:00 a.m.
Interment will follow at a later date in Gilby, ND.

Arrangements conducted by Barbot Funeral Home, Beulah and Hazen.

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