Carol Ann Avila

Carol Avila, better known to all that knew and loved her as Sue Avila, 67, of San Jose, California, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her 4 children, on October 5, 2023, after a six and a half year battle with cancer. She was born Carol Ann Gunsaulis on April 3, 1956, in San Jose, California, to parents Clifford and Mary Gunsaulis. Sue loved reading, spending time with her family and friends, cooking, being by the beach (Santa Cruz and Monterey), and getting to be a Mamaran (Grandma) to her five beautiful grandchildren. Sue had a deep love for her community. She had such a generous, compassionate heart and a true passion for helping those in need. She faithfully volunteered her time and donated to many organizations that were close to her heart, including Sacred Heart Community Service, Sunday Friends, St. Jude and many more. Sue Avila is survived by her 4 beloved children; Joseph Avila and his wife Amy and their daughter Lyla; Kimberly Coutts and her husband Paul and 2 children Emma and Andrew; Jason Avila and his wife Joanna and their 2 children Preston and Gianna; and Michael Avila. She was a loving mother who deeply cherished her family. Sue Avila was a member of the Holy Spirit Catholic Church in San Jose, California, where she found solace and strength in her faith. Her dedication to her religion was a source of comfort and guidance throughout her life and an inspiration to us all. Sue started her career with San Jose Unified School District in 1993 at Herbert Hoover Middle school. After several years, she moved on to Abraham Lincoln High School and eventually settled at Ernesto Galarza Elementary School, as the school secretary. In September of 2007, she took on a new role at the District Office in the Facilities Use and Community Services department and remained there until she retired in 2018. Sue touched the lives of countless students, teachers, and staff members. Her warm and welcoming personality made her an invaluable member of the school community. Sue's commitment to her work and her dedication to providing support and assistance to others will be remembered and greatly missed. Sue Avila's passing is a loss felt deeply by all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of unconditional love, kindness, and devotion to her family and friends. Her memory will forever be cherished by her children, Joseph, Kimberly, Jason, and Michael, and all those whose lives she touched. We extend our deepest condolences to Sue’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. May her soul rest in eternal peace.

Rosary will be held at Lima Family Erickson Memorial Chapel on Thursday, October 19th, at 6 PM. The address is 710 Willow Street, San Jose, Ca, 95125. This event will also be live streamed online. The Funeral will take place on Saturday, October 28, 2023, at 11 am, at the Mount St. Joseph Carmelite Monastery Church at 12455 Clayton Road, San Jose, Ca, 95127. Reception to follow the funeral. All are welcome to join us in remembering and celebrating our Mom.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.LimaFamilyEricksonMemorial.com for the Avila family.