Gloria Escobedo

Donna- Gloria Escobedo, 91, passed away on Monday, July 28, 2025 at Alfredo Gonzalez Vet Nursing Home in McAllen, TX. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Hawkins Funeral Home in Donna.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gloria Escobedo, beloved wife, sister, mother, grandmother, aunt, great grandmother and friend to many, who peacefully entered eternal rest at the Alfredo Gonzalez Veterans Home on Monday, July 28, 2025, at the age of 91. Born on March 16, 1934, in Petronila, Texas, Gloria lived a life filled with love, service, and adventure.

Gloria was the cherished daughter of Pablo Estrada and Juana Ruiz Estrada and was raised in a humble family as one of 11 children. She was a beloved sister to Caridad Murillo, Maria Urebia, Mario Estrada, Raquel Estrada, and Graciela Rendon. She was preceded in death by her siblings Paula Esquivel, Petra Aguinaga, Beatriz Torres, Socorro Rodriguez, Felix Estrada and grandson Daniel Matthew Escobedo.

Gloria was immensely proud of her high school life and the memories she made during those formative years. A dedicated member of the PSJA Bear Band, she skillfully played the French horn. She was a proud graduate of the Class of 1955 and faithfully attended most class reunions, even donating her class jacket to the PSJA memory collection.

Driven by a deep desire for continuous learning, she set her sights on becoming a Licensed Vocational Nurse. She dedicated many years to caring for others, a profession that truly reflected her compassionate spirit. She was a pioneer in public health, notably among the first to work across different county health departments. Her expertise also extended to pediatrics, supporting doctors' practices and providing care in nursing homes.

Beyond her professional life, she was a devoted wife to her husband, Genaro Escobedo, with whom she shared an incredible 65 years of marriage. A favorite family tale she loved to share was about her wedding ring, a symbol of Genaro's unwavering commitment. He purchased it in Okinawa while stationed in the Army, a testament to his certainty that she was the one he always wanted to marry.

She was a cherished mother to her six children: Herman, Waldo, Iris, Xavier, Aaron, and Gabriel. Her love extended to her 18 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy to her life.

Gloria instilled in her children, and later her grandchildren, the profound value of education. She took immense pride in attending countless graduations at universities across the state of Texas, celebrating each academic milestone.

Upon moving to Donna from San Juan, Gloria found her spiritual home at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, eventually becoming a devoted member of the Altar Society. Through this cherished membership, she forged lifelong friendships that continued to bring her joy, even after moving to the Alfredo Gonzalez Nursing Home, through comforting phone calls and spiritual cards.

She had a passion for travel, exploring new places and creating lasting memories with her beloved husband, children, and extended family. These adventures were among her most treasured moments.

Gloria's warmth, kindness, and unwavering love will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy of compassion, devotion, and joy will continue to inspire her family and friends.

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