Simona Gonzales

Simona Montes Gonzales was born on January 5, 1928, in Encinitas, California, and spent 98 beautiful years living a life rooted in faith, family, and service to others.

One of thirteen children born to Jose and Felicitas Montes, Simona’s story is deeply intertwined with the history of Encinitas and La Colonia de Eden Gardens. She loved sharing stories of her childhood and witnessing the growth and transformation of the community she called home.

In 1946, she graduated from San Dieguito High School, where she met the love of her life, Frank Gonzales. Together they built a beautiful life centered on love, faith, and family, raising four children and creating a home where everyone was welcomed and cared for.

Throughout her life, Simona dedicated herself to serving others. From becoming the first Brownie leader in Eden Gardens to volunteering throughout her community and proudly serving as team mother for Encinitas’ historic Little League All-Star team, she found great joy in helping others.

Simona’s greatest legacy is the generations of family she nurtured with unwavering faith, kindness, and love. She taught us that family is life’s greatest blessing and that a meaningful life is one spent caring for others.

In recognition of her lifelong contributions, the City of Encinitas proclaimed January 5th as “Simona Gonzales Day” in celebration of her 95th birthday.

Though small in stature, Simona’s impact was immeasurable. She leaves behind a beautiful legacy of faith, compassion, and service that will continue to live on through the generations who were blessed to know and love her.

We will forever be grateful for the gift of her life and the countless memories she leaves in our hearts.

Simona was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Frank Gonzales; her son, Frank Edward “Eddie” Gonzales; her great granddaughter Shandie Hamilton and her parents, Jose and Felicitas Montes.

She Is survived by her children, Rachel Jackson, Priscilla Rojo, and Andrew Gonzales; her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and many beloved family members and dear friends.