Gloria was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She is preceded in death by her beloved parents, Pioquinto and Elida Hernandez Villarreal, and her brothers, Roberto H. Villarreal and Alfredo Villarreal.
She is survived by her loving husband of 59 years, Martin Almendarez Jr.; their three sons: Martin Almendarez III; Miguel Angel Almendarez and his wife, Heather Lynn, along with their children Jordan Russel, Alicia Diane, and Alex “Luc”; and Roel Almendarez and his wife, Jennifer Marie, along with their children Elijah Matthew, Isabella Rose, and Nathaniel David.
She also leaves behind her dear sisters—Mary Olivo, Elida Guerra, and Julie Garcia—as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends who will miss her deeply.
Though she did not have the opportunity to pursue extensive formal education, Gloria’s natural wisdom and motherly instinct made her a beloved presence in the lives of countless children. In 1985, she began working as a teacher’s aide at Our Lady of Victory Catholic School, where she spent 23 years nurturing and guiding kindergarten students with patience, kindness, and joy. During that time, she became affectionately known as “Miss Tuesday.” She later continued her work at the OLV Early Childhood Center, where she was warmly called “Mrs. A.” Her gentle spirit and warm smile left a lasting impression on generations of young learners and their families.
The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to all the friends, extended family, and community members who have offered their love, prayers, and support during this time. Your kindness and presence have brought great comfort and are deeply appreciated. A special thank you to the doctors and nurses at St. David’s Hospital in Austin, Texas, for their exceptional care and compassion. Their dedication ensured that Mom was always comfortable and surrounded by kindness during her time there.
Friends are cordially invited to a visitation on Saturday, the 2nd of August 2025, at The Cathedral of Our Lady of Victory, beginning at nine o'clock in the morning. A recitation of the Holy Rosary is to commence at half-past nine o'clock in the morning and immediately followed by the Mass of Christian Burial commencing at ten o’clock in the morning.
The Rite of Committal will follow, via an escorted cortege, at Resurrection Cemetery.
We invite you to take a few moments to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence by visiting www.rosewoodfuneralchapel.com.
