Gloria May Cuadros

July 21, 1938 - September 11, 2025

A beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother passed away in the comfort of her home on September 11, 2025. She was born to John Sr. and Jennie (Zuinga) Ornelas in Atwater, California.

In July of 1960 she married Steven Cuadros and had three children, David, Robert and Stephanie. Growing up she developed a love for baseball while watching her father play and went on to play softball/fast pitch with several local teams throughout Merced and Atwater. She had worked as a cannery worker for more than 30 years at Cal-Can later becoming Tri-Valley Growers.

Gloria found joy in the simple things whether it was watching her favorite soap operas, crime shows, cooking channels or finding a good deal on QVC. She also loved gardening and especially taking pride in her hibiscus plants. Gloria enjoyed spending time with her brother AKA Junior, they shared a close bond.

Many will remember her best for her delicious homemade salsa, tortillas and meals she prepared while listening to "feel good" music and dancing in her kitchen. Her infectious smile, laughter and lively presence could brighten any room. She cherished good company, good music, heartfelt conversation and spending time with her grandchildren.

Gloria was preceded in death by her husband, Steven Cuadros; son, David Cuadros; brother, John Ornelas Jr.; parents, John Sr. and Jennie Ornelas and great-grandson, Mattheiu Cervantes.

She is survived by two children, Robert (Maria) Cuadros and Stephanie (Chuck) Cuadros-Calderon; six grandchildren, Corina (Jimmy) Jimenez, Shane (Alonzo) Cervantes, GG (Trevor) Grijalva Nowa, Steven Cuadros, Gina Grijalva, and Emilio Cuadros. She also leaves nine great grandchildren, Isaiah and Alina Jimenez, Enaleah Cuadros, Giovanni, Sophia Cervantes, Selena, Sebastian, and Mariella Cuadros, and one more Cervantes baby on the way. She also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, and her loyal companion, PooChi ("baby").

Gloria's warmth, laughter, and loving spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A recitation of the rosary will be held on Friday, October 10, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. with the funeral mass beginning at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church, 459 West 21st Street Merced, California. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Merced.