Nora Jean Bolivar (DeBerry), 68, of Bakersfield, California, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and on July 31, 2026. Born on December 2, 1957, in Santa Barbara, California, Nora lived a life filled with love, faith, and devotion to her family and friends.
Nora grew up in the beach towns of Carpinteria, CA and Ventura, CA where she often spoke of having her fondest memories with her parents and siblings. Her family moved to Taft, CA in 1969 where Nora spent the majority of her life before moving to Bakersfield, CA in 2011.
Nora is survived by her beloved husband Richard Anthony (Tony) Bolivar, and her cherished children: Angela (and Don) Johnson, Patrick (and Jennifer) Quick, Sherri (and Josh) Fischer, Carl (and Aletha) Caldwell, and Christina (and Nathan) Rawlins. She was the adored Grammy, and Mimi to 18 grandchildren: Blake, Madison, Grant, and Camryn Johnson; Kylee, Kennedy, and Jameson Quick; Morgahn (and Kasey) White (Quick); Chaz, and Cayleb Dickson; Xavier Sipe; Alexandria Fischer; Mackenzie, Janelle, Carly, and Claire Caldwell; and Daniel Rawlins. Nora was also very blessed to become a Great Grammy to Koltyn White. Nora was a devoted sister to Lynn (and Larry) Joy, Nancy (and Larry) Winfrey, Neil (and Denise) DeBerry, and Sally (and Gary) Thompson.
Nora was preceded in death by her loving parents, Joe and Vedena DeBerry, her adored grandson, Garret Johnson and her treasured sister, Jody Cromer. Nora’s family brought her immense joy and were the center of her world.
A woman deeply rooted in faith, Nora grew up with a strong knowledge and love of her Lord and savior, Jesus Christ. Her faith brought her comfort throughout her life, and she shared that faith and love with those around her. Her children have wonderful memories of Nora praising and singing in church on Sundays.
Nora had a vibrant personality that could light up any room. She was known for being spunky yet sweet—a combination that endeared her to everyone she met. Her caring and loving nature touched the lives of everyone who knew her. Her laughter and glowing personality brought a smile to everyone’s face. She was the mom to all those who allowed her to care for them.
Above all, Nora was a devoted wife, mother, sister, grammy, mimi, aunt and friend. Nora had many passions that enriched her life. She found peace while tending to her garden and often spoke of her hydrangeas and her “Jody plant”; she delighted in reading scriptures; and she treasured playing games with family members during gatherings filled with laughter and warmth.
Nora’s legacy is one of love—love for her family, love for her faith, and love for the simple joys in life. Her memory will forever be cherished by those who knew and loved her.
May Nora’s memory bring comfort to all who mourn her passing.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, August 28th, 2026 at Calvary Temple; Located at 630 Kern Street in Taft, CA at 11:00am.