Vilma Doloris Arvayo

Vilma Doloris Arvayo, the beloved wife of Samuel Arvayo and cherished mother to Tanya, Serena, and Erin, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 3rd, 2024, surrounded by her loved ones. She has now found eternal rest, free from pain, and is dancing joyfully in the kingdom of Heaven with those she had dearly missed. Vilma held the special titles of "Nana Loca" and "Mamita," which reflected the deep love and adoration her grandchildren and great-grandchildren had for her. They were the flowers in her garden, her greatest treasures in life.

Born in 1954 in San Francisco, California, Vilma was the daughter of Alicia Carmen Gordillo (Bravo) and Roger Salvador Gordillo, both of whom were originally from Managua, Nicaragua. Vilma took great pride in her Nicoya roots and loved nacatamales. She grew up alongside her siblings - Roger Gordillo, Margie Gordillo (Rogers), Elizabeth Gordillo (Rios), and Lucila Gordillo - and shared a profound bond with her cherished cousins, whom she affectionately referred to as her "cousin-sisters and brothers." Vilma moved from San Francisco,CA to Santa Clara, CA in 1964.

Vilma's life was a testament to her unwavering faith and her deep connection with God. Vilma's home on Forbes Avenue was a sanctuary where family members sought refuge, as she was a devoted prayer warrior who hosted regular prayer meetings. She found immense joy in her spiritual pursuits; most recently hosting the weekly "God's Table" prayer group and Bible study with her great-grandchildren. She also enjoyed the simple pleasures in her life; Fishing trips with her husband Sam, cheering on the 49ers (yelling at the referees), dancing, art , and painting. Vilma's legacy as a faithful servant of the Lord will be remembered by all who knew her. She was a courageous and brave spirit who took great pride in sharing the word of God with her loved ones, teaching them that God's love is greater than any of our mistakes, flaws, or struggles. Vilma's strong faith and her ability to bring people closer to God have left an indelible mark on the lives of all those she touched.

Vilma was preceded in death by her parents, Roger and Alicia Gordillo, as well as her siblings, Roger and Lucila Gordillo, and many other close family members. She is survived by her devoted husband, Samuel Arvayo; her daughters, Tanya, Serena, and Erin; her sisters, Elizabeth and Margie; her grandchildren, Marissa, Celia, Ezekiel, Natalia, Haile, and Nicole; and her great-grandchildren, Tehya, Israel (Junior), Analeah, Noah, and Harleen, who will forever cherish the love and guidance she provided.

Vilma Arvayo's Memorial Service & Celebration of Life : Saturday, August 17th 2024

Memorial Service at 11:00am at

Cathedral of Faith Chapel: 2315 Canoas Garden Ave, San Jose CA.

Celebration of Life to follow:

Time: 3:00pm

Location: Los Lagos Golf Course, 2995 Tuers Rd, San Jose, CA 95121

Dessert Table Potluck Style

In this time of grief, may the memories of Vilma's vibrant spirit and her enduring love provide comfort and solace to all who were blessed to have known her.

Vilma’s Celebration and Memorial Fund:

Husband Samuel Arvayo ZELLE

Email: [email protected]

Thank you for your love and support during this time.