Gloria Ortiz Romero's Obituary
Gloria Ortiz Romero, of Tucson, Arizona, celebrated her 90th birthday with family and friends and to the tunes of Mariachi Agave on February 1, 2026.
Two weeks later, she passed away peacefully at home on February 15, 2026, with her loving family and friends by her side.
Gloria was born on February 1, 1936, in Onava, New Mexico.
She grew up in a family of musicians, singers, dancers, magicians, and acrobats. Her father was a vaudeville director, and her mother was a blues singer and healer.
Her family traveled from town to town, entertaining crowds. They especially enjoyed doing comedy skits reflecting differences between Mexican Americans and Anglo traditions.
Gloria was a gifted singer whose powerful voice rose above the mariachis’ instruments. When singing, her voice carried strength and beauty that etched a place in your heart forever.
A true professional, Gloria owned every stage!
In 1956, while singing in Los Angeles, she met a handsome Marine, Vince Romero, of Bisbee, Arizona.
They immediately fell in love, married, and made their home in Bisbee where Gloria was a devoted wife and loving mother.
Over the years, she worked various jobs to make life better for her family. She had an endless work ethic and tremendous faith in and devotion to God.
One of the many ways Gloria expressed her love was through her cooking. She prepared incredibly delicious meals, always making plenty so everyone could take leftovers. More than anything, she was always there for her family — offering love, prayers, and unwavering support.
In 1986, Gloria and Vince relocated to Marco Island, Florida, where they helped her brother run a Mexican food restaurant. Gloria served as hostess and often delighted guests by singing.
In 1997, Gloria and her husband returned to Tucson, Arizona, to be closer to their children and grandchildren.
Gloria was preceded in death by her beloved husband; her father, Jose T. Ortiz; her mother, Florinda (Naranjo) Ortiz; and her brother, Reuben (Ortiz) Silverbird.
She is survived by her brother Steve Ortiz (Connie); sisters Anita Sachs and Juanita Harter; brother Frankie Ray Ortiz; daughters Florinda (Tom), Gloria (Craig), and Ida (Robert); sons Julian (Shannon) and Glenn (Joanna); brother-in-law David Bravo (Cari); as well as many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and her beloved “baby” poodle, Brandy.
Gloria’s voice, love, and legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
A memorial mass will be heald on March 12th at 11:00am at St. Elizabeth Ann Seaton Roman Catholic Church, 8650 N Shannon Road Tucson, AZ 85742.
Interment will take place at the Southern Arizona Veterans' Memorial Cemetery, 1300 S Buffalo Soldier Trail, Sierra Vista, AZ 85635 on March 13th at 1:00pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital.
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