Perla Elhard

In Loving Memory of Perla Berenice Elhard

January 4, 1983 – September 5, 2026

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Perla Berenice Elhard, a devoted mother, trusted friend, mentor, and social work professional whose life was defined by perseverance, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to helping others.

Perla grew up in Nogales, Arizona, a community that remained an important part of who she was throughout her life. She faced her share of struggles and challenges along the way, but she refused to allow difficult circumstances to define her. Perla found strength in her accomplishments, continued moving forward when life was difficult, and took great pride in everything she worked to achieve. Her determination and perseverance were among the qualities that made her remarkable.

In 2013, Perla earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Ashford University, an accomplishment that reflected both her determination and her desire to understand and help others. She went on to dedicate her professional life to behavioral health and social services, working with Arizona's Children Association, CODAC Health, Recovery & Wellness, and most recently Centene Corporation, where she served in a supervisory role.

Perla didn't simply believe in helping people, she made a career and a life out of it. She loved teaching and mentoring others and took great pride in helping those she supervised develop confidence in themselves and their abilities. She understood the importance of having someone willing to believe in you, guide you, and give you an opportunity to grow. Through the clients, coworkers, and supervisees whose lives she touched, the impact of her work will continue far beyond her own lifetime.

Of all Perla's accomplishments, however, nothing meant more to her than being a mother to her sons, Mateo and Nathaniel. Her boys were at the center of her world. She worked tirelessly to provide for them, advocated fiercely for them, and continually went above and beyond to make sure they had what they needed. Mateo and Nathaniel were the greatest loves of her life.

And anyone who knew Perla during soccer season knew another important title she proudly carried: “Soccer Mom.” Practices, games, schedules, driving, cheering from the sidelines, she showed up. It was another expression of the same devotion she brought to motherhood: when someone she loved needed her, Perla found a way to be there.

Perla was also a deeply trusted and loyal friend. She was someone people could depend on, someone who cared deeply, and someone who gave generously of herself. She valued the people in her life and remained incredibly grateful for the family, friends, coworkers, neighbors, and community members who surrounded her and her children with love and support.

During the final chapter of her life, that love was returned to Perla. She knew how many people were praying for her, checking on her, contributing to help her and her children, and simply letting her know that she wasn't facing everything alone. Before her passing, Perla expressed how deeply grateful she was for the tremendous love, kindness, generosity, and support shown to her and her family.

Perla's life cannot be measured simply by the years she lived. Her legacy lives in Mateo and Nathaniel, in the people she helped throughout her career, in the professionals she mentored, in the friendships she nurtured, and in the community she loved.

She faced adversity. She worked hard. She persevered. She achieved. She loved fiercely. And she never stopped showing up for the people who mattered to her.

Perla will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Perla's family will be holding a Celebration of Life in Nogales, Arizona, where Perla will be laid to rest beside her beloved mother, Ramona Abril Daniel. All who knew and loved Perla are welcome to attend. The date, time, and additional details will be shared once arrangements have been finalized.

Those who knew Perla are encouraged to share their memories, stories, and photographs on this memorial page. Whether you knew her as a mother, friend, coworker, mentor, supervisor, neighbor, or member of the community, your memories are part of the story of her life and a meaningful gift to those who loved her.

Rest peacefully, Perla. Your work here is finished, but the love you gave and the lives you touched remain. Donations for Perla and the family can be made at https://gofund.me/bfcd91707