On the morning of September 8th, 2024, our lives changed forever, as the world lost a beautiful person, inside and out, Amber Gonzales. The pain and hurt Amber hid from most, was too much to continue to bear. May we always remember her smile and the way she could light up a room. She loved deeply, as anyone that knew her could stand witness to.
Amber is survived by her four beautiful daughters: Nikki Diaz, Kylie Diaz, Lauren Gonzales, and Zoe Gonzales. As well as her two beloved grandsons, Nico and Gio Jimenez. Amber would refer to Nico and Gio as her boys, she was so proud to be their “Yaya”. She is also survived by her husband Eddie, her father and his wife Kim and Debb Gong, mother Janeene Smith, and her brother and sister-in-law Eli and Tiffani Gong. There are also many nephews, nieces, cousins, friends of her daughters (that became like family) that she also leaves behind. She will also be missed dearly by all her close friends and family.
Amber also left lasting impressions on students and staff in her roles in education over the years working for Merced County Office of Education, Weaver Union School District, and Merced Union High School District. Amber touched the lives of so many.
Her visitation will be held at the Stratford Funeral Home, here in Merced, on September 18th, 5pm-8pm, with a brief ceremony at 6pm. Her celebration of life will be held at Club Mercedes on September 21st, 1pm-5pm.
We are hoping to raise awareness about the importance of checking in on our loved ones. Sometimes, the pain someone is carrying remains hidden. Please continue to keep Amber and her loved ones in your thoughts and prayers. Your love and support mean the world to us as we navigate this unimaginable loss. Thank you for helping us keep Amber’s memory alive and for being a part of her story.
