Zoila Lopez Aguilera

She was born on June 27, 1924, in Guayaquil, Ecuador. In 1947, Zoila journeyed to the United States to start a new life with her mother, Carmen, and siblings. She settled in San Diego and briefly worked at the tuna canneries on the bay. She later met her husband of 55 years, Manuel Aguilera.

She is survived by her four sons, Manuel Jr.; Joseph and his wife Carolyn; Michael and his wife Laura; Mario and his wife Kelli; former daughter-in-law Linda; her most cherished five grandchildren (to whom she was known as “Lita”) Beth, Richie, Jessica, Julia, Alexis; and one great granddaughter, Daniella.

Inspirational. Caring. Loving. Selfless. Patient. Devoted. Strong. Determined. Supportive. These are the words her family uses to describe her.

Deeply religious, Zoila was active in the Catholic Church for many years. She loved her family trips to Las Vegas and had a passion for the slots. She enjoyed parties and never missed an opportunity to celebrate special occasions with friends and family.

Zoila loved to cook for her family and friends. Some of her most well-known favorites were her hayacas at Christmas, arroz con pollo, enchiladas and macaroni salad.

Zoila loved her family dearly and unrelentingly put their needs above hers. She was always proud to share her life stories with her children and grandchildren. She consistently inspired those around her with a legacy of unity, religious conviction and kindness. She will be dearly missed.

The viewing will be held on January 23, 2026, from 9:30 am to 10:30 am followed by the funeral service from 10:30 am to 11:30 am at Cypress View Mausoleum, Mortuary and Crematory, located at 3953 Imperial Ave, San Diego, CA 92113.

The burial service will follow at 12:00 pm, at Holy Cross Cemetery, located at 4470 Hilltop Drive San Diego, CA 92102.

A celebration of life will immediately follow at Michael and Laura Aguilera’s house: 482 Miguel Trail Place, Chula Vista, CA 91914.