Julia "Bambi" Macias - Rael

Julia "Bambi" Macias left this world on February 1, 2025, at her beloved home in Tolleson, Arizona, surrounded by her loving family. Born on December 25, 1967, in Phoenix, Arizona, Bambi brought joy and warmth to everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. A proud graduate of Carl Hayden High School, she carried the values of education and family close to her heart throughout her life.

Bambi was more than just a daughter, sister, mother, and friend; she was a radiant spirit whose laughter could brighten even the dullest day. Those who knew her remember her deep love for life, her enthusiasm for grocery shopping, and her passion for cooking meals that brought everyone together around the table. Every gathering she participated in become an enjoyable, fun memory, filled with laughter and joy, showcasing her fun personality as she entertained her family and friends with "larger than life" captivating stories.

As a child, her love for Disney imbued her life with magic, but she did not adopt the nickname "Bambi" from Disney, that name was given to her, as she was fondly referred to by her grandfather, short for "bambina". The name did however reflect her whimsical appreciation for all things related to her favorite character. She found solace and happiness in the happiest place on earth—Disneyland—where memories were crafted with every visit. Bambi's favorite food was "street" Mexican food (taco truck), particularly a red chili burrito, accompanied by her love for desserts and sweets after dinner, indulgences she shared with her loved ones.

Bambi's heart was large enough to embrace all, and she was exceptionally faithful to Jesus Christ and her God, a guiding force in her life. Her vibrant spirit continued to inspire those around her, and she will be remembered for her favorite color, purple, which symbolized not only her favorite hue but also the vibrancy she brought into every relationship.

As a devoted mother, Bambi's proudest accomplishments include being a great mother to her children, Angela and Ryan, and her role as her daughter’s best friend. She cherished every moment spent with them, creating an unbreakable bond that transcended the ordinary parent-child relationship. Her love was a sanctuary for them, and they will carry her spirit with them forever.

Bambi shared an unbreakable bond with her siblings, Lori and Jorge Rael, alongside her aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews Jonathan, Gabriel, Dominique, Carlos, Desireé, and Xavier. All the cousins from the Chavez and Rael families really meant allot to her, being integral to her life and filled her heart with joy.

She is lovingly survived by her two children, Angela and Ryan, her siblings Lorena and Jorge, as well as her cherished cousins. She joins her son, Jeremy Macias, and her beloved parents, Olivia Chavez and Leo Rael, in eternal rest.

A memorial service will be held on February 20, 2025, at Avenidas Funeral Chapel in Avondale, AZ, from 11 AM to 1 PM, where family and friends can come together to celebrate Bambi's life and the incredible memories, she gifted to everyone.

Friends and family are invited to attend a gathering hosted by the family in Bambi's traditional party fashion at her residence ay 1:30PM following the memorial service at 8435 w Hughes Dr. in Tolleson. All are invited to share in the joys and memories of such a dynamic person who blessed us with her companionship for this shot time on earth.

In remembering Bambi, let us honor the beautiful legacy she leaves behind—a legacy of love, laughter, and an unwavering faith that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

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Not Goodbye...

I've started on this journey,
I can't tell you why,
don't wait for me or stay up all night,
for this is not goodbye.

There is no need for all those tears,
there is no need to cry,
keep on wearing that pretty smile,
because this is not goodbye.

Keep me in your hearts always,
I'll never be too far,
If things ever get too rough,
think of me in that moment for this is not goodbye.

I will see you again soon,
I will hold onto "that promise",
there really is no reason, to feel sad or want to cry,
remember me forever my friends, 

 for this is not goodbye.