Mercedes Graciela Gross

Mercedes’s journey began on 1/13/1963, born to Graciela Padilla Cubas and Jose Cubas Gross in Los Angeles, California. Throughout her 60 years, she filled our lives with love and laughter and showed us the meaning of strength.

Mercedes had many special traits. She was bold, self-confident, a fear-tackler, unafraid to stand up for who and what she believed in, and never hesitated to speak her mind. She embraced challenges throughout her career, and more recently was an apartment manager for 17 years. Mercedes approached her work with dedication and excellence, earning the admiration of everyone around her.

Mercedes’s most significant legacy was her role as a devoted wife to James Lopez, with whom she shared 31 years of unconditional love. Though she didn’t have children, she was a loving stepmother to Alana Lopez and Jimmy “Booboo” Lopez. Mercedes was also a loving daughter, an amazing sister, a wonderful Nina, Aunt, and friend - she made you feel like part of her family.

Mercedes had a passion for family. Her favorite place was spending time in a swimming pool or a jacuzzi, having drinks, telling old stories, and heartily laughing. Her face would light up and she would smile big once she was with family and friends. In these moments we were witness to her genuine joy for life, which was infectious.

Mercedes was a shining example of kindness, humor, caring, and love in a world that can seem hurried and impersonal. She could lift the spirits of those around her and offer wisdom and comfort in times of need. While she may no longer be with us in person, her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She touched our lives profoundly and will forever be cherished and missed. May you find comfort in your memories of Mercedes, for she will remain a guiding and joyful light in our lives, now and always.

Please join us as we come together to share stories, shed tears, and find solace in each other’s company in honor of Mercedes. Mercedes loved flowers, and Stargazers were her favorite. There is a link below to send flowers for her celebration of life memorial service.