Clarissa Adriana Amparano's Obituary
Clarissa Adriana Amparano, loving wife, cherished daughter, devoted sister, and beloved granddaughter, passed away peacefully on January 7, 2026 at 8:05 PM, after a courageous three-year battle with breast cancer. She was 28 years old.
Clarissa was born on January 22, 1997, and lived in Tucson, Arizona, where she built a life filled with love, purpose, and deep connection to her family and community.
Clarissa was the beloved wife of Cameron Amparano, the cherished daughter of Andy and Marisa Espinoza, and the loving sister of Arianna Espinoza. She was the adored granddaughter of Frank G. Santa Cruz and Irma Santa Cruz (beloved). Clarissa was deeply loved by her many tios and tias, cousins, extended family, and countless friends, all of whom will forever carry her memory in their hearts.
Clarissa was a bright light—intelligent, compassionate, and driven. She graduated from San Diego Christian University with her Bachelor’s degree and devoted her life to serving others through education. Clarissa worked as a Special Education Teacher and later became a Director at South Gate Academy, where she made a lasting impact on students and families through her leadership, dedication, and heart for children with special needs. She believed every child deserved to be seen, supported, and loved, and she carried that passion into everything she did.
In addition to her work in education, Clarissa was also incredibly creative and talented. She poured her heart into her small business, ClarisCuteCreations, where she shared her craftiness and passion through her handmade creations. Her hands were always creating something beautiful, and her heart was always giving. Her creativity brought joy to so many and was another beautiful reflection of who she was—thoughtful, hardworking, and full of light.
Beyond her accomplishments, Clarissa was known for her strong spirit and her unwavering love for her family. Throughout her cancer battle, she courageously shared her journey, posting updates with honesty, faith, and strength. In doing so, she inspired countless people—offering hope and encouragement even while enduring the hardest fight of her life.
Clarissa was her mother’s first baby, and they grew up together in a bond that cannot be put into words. She was deeply cherished by her family and her presence brought comfort, laughter, and meaning to those who were blessed to know her. Her love, perseverance, and gentle heart will remain a lasting legacy.
Though our hearts are broken, we are grateful for the time we had with Clarissa and for the love she poured into this world. Her life mattered deeply, and her memory will live on through the lives she touched, the students she guided, and the strength she showed through her journey.
Clarissa Adriana Amparano will be forever missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.
Services will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Calvary Chapel West Campus, 5170 S. Julian Drive, Tucson, AZ 85706. A Celebration of Life at Cafe Santa Rosa will follow 2615 S. 6th Ave. Tucson. Az 85713
Until we meet again, our beautiful angel. We love you always.
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