Gloria M. Ortiz

As a family, our hearts are heavy as we announce the passing of our dear mother, grandmother, nana, nina, tia, and friend – Gloria Mary Ortiz; however, we will forever cherish the wonderful memories she gifted us. Born on the 11th of September, 1932, Gloria peacefully gained her angel wings on the 19th of February, 2025 – at the vibrant age of 92. She lived a life of grace, filled with love, laughter, faith, and an unwavering devotion to her family and community.

Although born in Santa Maria, CA, Gloria considered the Coachella Valley her true home, where her life's journey unfolded. A proud 1949 graduate of Coachella Valley High School, she always held her "Arab" pride dear, even amidst our playful teasing about her being from the only school in town back then! That strong sense of loyalty and spirit was something she carried throughout her life. To know Gloria was to know true strength, grace and compassion; as she was a loving sister to Julieta Luna (predeceased), Mary Rodriguez, and Emilio Salgado (predeceased). After graduating, she began working at Indio Shoe Store in the 1950s. Even then, her bright spirit shone. Amidst the neatly arranged boxes and the chatter of customers, she made everyone feel special, a warmth that would define her life.

Gloria's heart found its truest happiness on the 4th of December, 1960, the day she married Carlos Aniceto Trejo Ortiz (predeceased). “It was the happiest day of my life,” she'd say with a smile, her eyes filled with so much love. From that day forward, Carlos and Gloria built a beautiful life, blessed with their three daughters Terry, Estella, and Elisa.

Gloria's dedication to her family was immeasurable. She was a constant presence in her children's, grandchildren's, and great-grandchild's lives, attending their graduations, talent shows, softball games, karate tournaments, swim meets, science fairs, dance recitals, wrestling matches, and football games with unwavering enthusiasm. A proud grandmother of Alythia, Christina “Crissy” (predeceased), Carlos, Christina, Ilianna, John, and Nico, and a loving great-grandmother to Ava. When her grandson, Carlos, married Ashley, on the 1st of November, 2024, Gloria welcomed Ashley with open arms, saying how her family was “growing beautifully!” This boundless love extended beyond her immediate family; she even opened her heart and home as a daycare provider, nurturing generations of children.

As Gloria got older, her faith became even more important to her. She was a devoted member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish and a part of the Catholic Daughters since the 4th of October, 2009. Her commitment to service shone brightly through her involvement with the Valley Missionary Program in Coachella. Her Encounter #61(a spiritual retreat), lived in Spanish on the 22nd of March, 1998, was a testament to her deep faith. As the director of Caminando Con Cristo community, she opened her home and heart to countless individuals, fostering a warm and welcoming community. We’ll forever remember the joy of those monthly potlucks after Rosary, the shared laughter, music, and the unwavering support she offered to those in need.

Gloria's zest for life extended beyond her faith. She was an active participant in the Coachella and Indio Senior Centers, where she discovered a love for pottery and crafted beautiful costume jewelry with her dear friends. Gloria truly knew how to enjoy life's simple pleasures – she was such a good sport – and this playful spirit shone through her love of cards, board games, and Jenga – she was always up for a challenge but she didn't like to lose! She also loved to sing and dance – especially her famous Camel Walk – and her home was always filled with music, laughter, and the warmth of her hospitality.

More than anything, Gloria was a refuge, a sanctuary where hearts found peace. Her home was a place where everyone felt safe, loved, seen, and truly heard. This unconditional love, Gloria's greatest gift, will continue to resonate in our lives and in the lives of all the people she's touched, a legacy of grace, warmth and compassion that will never be forgotten.