Gloria Rodriguez, 70, a beloved mother, wife, daughter, aunt and friend, passed away on Sept. 1, 2026. Gloria was at home, surrounded by loved ones, at the time of her passing.
Born to Catarina Jasso on Nov. 13, 1955, in Madera, California, Gloria attended Madera High School, graduating with the class of 1972. She attended Fresno City College for two years, receiving her AA degree. She then attended Fresno State University where she obtained her Bachelor’s or Arts degree in Home Economics and her Single Subject Teaching Credential.
Gloria began her teaching career at Avenal High School before moving back home to work at Furman High School for the remainder of her 35-year teaching career. Outside of her passion for teaching, Gloria enjoyed spending time with her family, crocheting, baking, traveling with her husband, sitting in front of the ocean and creating memories for her grandchildren who brought her so much joy.
Gloria is survived by her loving husband of 40 years, Ricardo Rodriguez Sr.; her daughter, Kathryn Wilmer, and son-in-law, Joey Wilmer, and their daughters, Ellie and Annaliea Wilmer; her son, Ricardo Rodriguez Jr., and daughter-in-law, Jody Rodriguez, and their son, Sebastian Rodriguez; her mother, Catarina Jasso; her older brother Alfredo Jasso and sister-in-law Maria Jasso. She also leaves behind beloved aunts, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many others who loved her dearly.
Gloria is preceded in death by her younger brother, Steven Zamora.
Gloria leaves behind a legacy of devotion, strength, hard work, and above all love; love that will live on forever. Her life was one of faithfulness to her family, service to teaching children, and appreciation for the everyday joys that made life meaningful. Those who knew her will remember her warm smile, her adoration for her children, and the love she gave to all. She will be deeply missed and forever held in the hearts of her husband, children, family and all who were blessed to know her.
Gloria’s Memorial service will be held on Thursday, Sept. 24, 2026, at Jay Chapel from 10:30 a.m. to noon. A reception lunch in Gloria’s honor will follow the memorial service at the VFW Hall located at: 2026 N. Granada Dr., Madera, CA 93637 at 1 p.m.