Cecilia Nixen

Cecilia Nixen, 69, passed away unexpectedly on the morning of Wednesday, May 13, 2026. As a lifelong Miami Dolphins fan, it feels fitting that she passed on the 13th- the number worn by her favorite quarterback, Dan Marino.

Born July 19, 1956, in Mesa, AZ to Ygnacio and Concha Nixen, she was the third of four siblings yet quickly established herself as “the boss” of the family. With her vibrant and caring personality, deep sense of service, and unmatched attention to detail, she never missed an opportunity to help those around her. Simply put, she got things done.

She was a proud graduate of Westwood High School Class of 1974, attended Arizona State University and Mesa Community College, and later completed a Level I certification in Chemical Dependency Counseling through Rio Salado Community College in the late 2000s.

For the last 18 years of her career, Cecilia found her calling in social work, serving as a High Needs Case Manager. She was a fierce advocate for the children and families she supported, and her dedication left a lasting impact on many lives.

After retiring in January 2019, she embraced her many hobbies: creating wreaths, floral arrangements, and tablescapes for every holiday imaginable; doing puzzles; swimming; gardening; and, of course, cooking. She loved flipping through recipe books and dreaming up new twists on dishes as though she were a Top Chef contestant in a quickfire challenge.

Cecilia was also an animal lover who enjoyed spending time with family pets, most recently a saucy tabby named Sparky (named after the ASU mascot) whom she and her daughter rescued. She supported organizations dedicated to animals and animal rights.

A multifaceted person, she carried a quiet strength that many found calming yet those who knew her understood one thing clearly: don’t piss her off. She always stood up for herself and for others. She carried a deep spiritual faith that shaped her compassion and resilience.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Ygnacio and Concha. She is survived by her daughter, Nicole, and by relatives and friends who will miss her deeply.

Visitation and rosary will be held on Thursday, May 28, from 3–5 p.m. at Meldrum Mortuary, 52 N. MacDonald St., Mesa, AZ 85201. The funeral Mass will take place on Friday, May 29, at 10 a.m. at Queen of Peace Catholic Church, 141 N. MacDonald St., Mesa, AZ 85201. Burial will follow at 11:30 a.m. at City of Mesa Cemetery, 1212 N. Center St., Mesa, AZ 85201.