Gloria was born in Aibonito, Puerto Rico, on February 19,1926 to Geronimo and Josepha Rivera. She had 5 brothers and 3 sisters. Three years after graduating from high school in Aibonito, at the age of 21, Gloria convinced her Father and Mother to let her go to New York City (NYC) to live with a cousin, where she became a seamstress. Shortly after her arrival in NYC she met the love of her life on a blind date and their journey began. Gloria married Julio Manuel Mariota, whom she referred to as "Manolin", in 1950. After marriage they moved to Mexico City for Manolin's work. They stayed in Mexico City for 6 years and were blessed to have their first two children, Manuel and Rene. From Mexico City they journeyed back to Puerto Rico for a short period, finally settling their family on the West Coast in 1955. Gloria and Manolin lived in Chula Vista, where they were blessed with their second two children, Josie and Yvonne. In 1992 Gloria was widowed, she lost the love of her life and best friend. Gloria was incredibly strong during this time, she never lost her passion and commitment to take care of her family. Gloria had spiritual strength, a determination for life, for giving to others, and for taking care of her children and grandchildren. The passion to take care of family was shared with her Mother in Law "Mama", they formed a special bond, and together spent each day watching, feeding, transporting grandchildren and loving every minute of their experiences. In Gloria's spare time she loved to cook and sew. She was famous for her empanadillas, flan, and pastelon. On Mother's Day, Sunday, May 13, 2018 with her family by her side, Gloria passed away at her home. Gloria has joined "Manolin" in heaven to continue their everlasting journey. Gloria is survived by her loving children sons Manuel and Rene Mariota, daughters Josie Alatorre, Yvonne Carlson, grandchildren Anthony Mariota, Kristine Pierce, Daniel Alatorre, Valerie Artar, Michelle Alatorre, Sean Mariota, Ryan Mariota, Lindsey Correia, Lauren Carlson, Jaycee Carlson, great grandsons Joey and Josh Pierce, and brothers Louie and Miguel Rivera.
