Ramona Gloria Zuniga, known simply as Gloria to most who loved her, passed away on September 13, 2026, at the age of 83. She leaves behind a family that was shaped by her strength, generosity, faith, and the extraordinary way she cared for the people in her life.

Gloria was born on November 15, 1942, to Jacinto and Josephine Duenez. The oldest of five children, she learned responsibility at an early age, helping care for her younger siblings and working alongside her family in the flower shop her parents owned – La Colonia Florist. To her younger siblings she was Gloria, and affectionately, “Yaya.” Caring for others became a thread that would continue to weave throughout her entire life.

Gloria graduated from Santa Clara High School in 1960. As a young woman, she was active in her church and various social clubs. She played the organ for church mass, weddings, and funerals. Her faith was deeply rooted and remained an important part of her throughout her life, guiding the way she loved, served, and cared for others.

On February 8, 1964, Gloria married Miguel “Mike” Zuniga Together, they began a life centered around family, friendship, and community.

Above all, Gloria was a devoted mother. Her children, Jerry and Denise, were at the heart of her life, and there was nothing she wouldn’t do for them. She loved them fiercely and unconditionally, supported them throughout every season of their lives, and took tremendous pride in the people they became. That love only grew as her family expanded and she became a grandmother. Her children and grandchildren were among her greatest joys, and family remained at the center of everything she did.

Gloria went on to build an impressive 38-year career as a computer programmer at the Port Hueneme Navy base. Beginning her career during an era when few women were entering the technology field, she distinguished herself through her intelligence, professionalism, determination, and dedication to her work. She ultimately rose to the level of a GS-12 before retiring. An accomplishment that reflected the strong and capable woman she was.

Retirement, however, did not mean slowing down. Gloria spent time working in the cafeteria at Somis School, where she became affectionately known to students as “Mrs. Z.” During those years, she also devoted herself to helping care for her aging parents, her mother-in-law, her godmother, and her granddaughter. From being the oldest sister caring for younger siblings to caring for loved ones later in life, looking after others was simply part of Gloria’s nature.

Yet somehow, Gloria always found time for things and especially the people that she loved. She and Mike shared many interests and adventures over the years, especially their love of traveling and spending time at their timeshare in Mexico. Whether at home working on a project, their Model A cars, or enjoying a favorite getaway, they shared a lifetime of experiences together.

She loved cheering on the Dodgers and watching volleyball on TV. She loved shopping flea markets for antiques, jewelry and going to jewelry shows, and collected treasures including Hallmark ornaments, baskets, and Depression glass.

She was also a gifted quilter and spent many happy hours working alongside her sister Tina creating beautiful quilts and participating in a quilt club. Her creativity could be seen throughout her home and garden, but perhaps nowhere more beautifully than in the small greenhouse where she lovingly tended her collection of orchids.

Perhaps it was fitting that Gloria loved orchids so much. Like Gloria, they possess a quiet beauty and grace, appearing delicate while carrying remarkable strength and resilience within.

More than anything, Gloria loved her family. Her home became a gathering place for generations. Thanksgiving and Christmas meant gathering at Auntie’s house, where her children, grandchildren, siblings, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews came together. She opened her doors, cooked for everyone, and filled her home with food, conversation, laughter, and the comfort of knowing you belonged there. Her generosity wasn't something she spoke about, it was simply how she lived.

Gloria was preceded in death by her parents, Jacinto and Josephine Duenez, and her sister, Martina.

She leaves behind her children, Jerry Zuniga (Angie) and Denise McTizic (Wesley); her grandchildren, Alyssa Valdivia, Kaya and Roman McTizic; her siblings, Jenny Castañeda (Alfred), Marian Duenez, Alexander Duenez (Roseanne), and Justina Duenez; along with many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family members, and friends whose lives were touched by her.

Her legacy will live on in the family she loved so deeply, in the traditions she created, and in the countless memories made around her table and in her home. It will be found in beautiful gardens and blooming orchids, in handmade quilts, favorite recipes, holiday gatherings, and in many ways her family will continue to care for one another because she showed them how.

Gloria lived a life of faith, strength, generosity, and devotion to family. She gave so much of herself to so many, and the love she leaves behind will continue through the generations who were fortunate enough to call her theirs.