Norma Zubiate Gallardo

Lord, November 19, 2025.

Norma was born March 29, 1938 in Tucson, Arizona. She was a remarkable woman whose kindness, strength, and unwavering devotion to her family touched every life she encountered. A proud graduate of Immaculate Heart Academy Class of 1958, she carried her education and faith forward into a lifelong dedication to helping others.

Soon after graduating, she began her professional journey at the Tucson Clinic, starting in bookkeeping before discovering her true talent for working closely with patients. Over the years, she served in surgery scheduling and collaborated with medical insurance groups to advocate for patients. She was a trusted interpreter for countless patients, offering not only translation but comfort, dignity, and compassion. She later brought her expertise to Orthopedic Surgery offices, where she continued to support physicians and families with grace until her retirement.

Outside of her career, she lived a vibrant life with creativity and joy. She loved music, dancing, and exercise, and her creative spirit shone through in everything she touched. Yet, above all, nothing

compared to the love she held for her children and grandchildren. She loved fiercely, selflessly, and without hesitation-embodying every day what true, unconditional love looks like.

Her absence leaves an immense void in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. Though she has left this earthly life, her warmth, strength, and boundless love will forever remain a guiding light for her family and all who loved her.

She was preceded in death by her husband Ruben Mendoza Gallardo. She is survived by her children; Blanca (Luis), Carlos (Norma), Yolanda, Marisa (Ricardo); grandchildren Gabriel, Adriana, Cristian (Evelyne), Christina (Lucas), Vanessa (Andrew), Celina (Nick ), Sophia, Antonio, Raquel and great granddaughter Lucia Marie.

Services will be held Thursday, December 11, 2025 at Santa Cruz Catholic Church: Rosary 9:30 am, Mass 10:00 am

East Lawn Palms Mortuary and Cemetery: Burial Service 12:00pm

In lieu of flowers please make donations in Norma's memory to St. Jude's Children's Cancer Research