Gloria C de la Garza

Gloria C. de la Garza, age 96, was called to be with our heavenly Father on August 1, 2024. Fondly known as “Mi Yaya” to her many nephews and nieces and “Nani” to her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and beloved friends, Gloria's presence touched countless lives.

She is survived by her sister, Margarita Davison; her sister-in-law, Luz Neville; her four children, Jorge (Charlene) de la Garza, Gloria Yolanda (David) Ruiz, Xavier (Chris) de la Garza, and Irma (Chuck) Moretti; as well as many nieces and nephews. Gloria was also the proud grandmother of 11 grandchildren: Tamara, Jessica, Joey, Meghan, Zachary, Brandon, Aaron, Benjamin, Mason, Taylor, and Marissa, and cherished great-grandmother to 14 great-grandchildren.

Born in Cananea, Sonora, Mexico, on April 7, 1928—“Sabado de Gloria,” the day before Easter—Gloria grew up surrounded by her four sisters and two brothers. As a young woman, she helped her family by working as a cashier at “La Barata”.

Her frequent visits to Tucson to see her older sisters and other family members led her to meet Trinidad de la Garza. They married three months after their first meeting on July 10, 1954, and spent 51 years together in Tucson, raising their four children.

Gloria was a devoted and loving wife, mother, daughter, and grandmother. Her greatest passion was her family and her faith. She lovingly cared for her mother until her passing and cherished her role as a grandmother and great-grandmother, always making time for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In earlier years, Gloria was celebrated for the memorable birthday parties she hosted for her children, which brought family and friends together with food, piñatas, and homemade cakes. Her love for music was evident, with her radio often playing in the kitchen, and she and Trinidad ensured their children had the opportunity to learn various instruments. Her sense of humor and laughter brought joy to her home.

Gloria’s deep faith was a cornerstone of her life. She and Trinidad taught 2nd Grade Bible Study classes for about ten years at Tucson Baptist Temple and were active in the Spanish Ministry. They also dedicated over a decade to the Prison Ministry, conducting Bible studies and seminars across State, Federal, and local prisons in Arizona, often sharing music with Trini playing the guitar and both singing duets. They later joined Rincon Baptist Church, where they continued their service and fellowship. Gloria also visited the sick, offering food, companionship, and prayer, and opened her home to foreign exchange students as part of their ministry.

Gloria enjoyed a variety of activities, from spending time with family and cooking her delicious tamales, red chile con carne, and amazing homemade tea, to dining out with loved ones. She also enjoyed attending church activities and spending time there with friends and family. She loved playing games with her children and grandchildren, including jump rope, table tennis, volleyball, lotería, bingo, and board and card games. Her grandchildren have many cherished memories of summers spent with her and Trinidad who would pick them up and take them to visit museums, go bowling, play mini-golf, or trips to the zoo.

Gloria’s life was a testament to unconditional love and faith. She exemplified Christ’s love and was a source of inspiration to all who knew her, demonstrating a profound passion for guiding others.