Gloria Salinas

Gloria Salinas, affectionately known as Tia Gloria to her adoring family and friends, passed away peacefully after a short illness on July 3, 2024, in McAllen, Texas. Born on October 6, 1931, in Mexico City, Gloria's life journey of 92 years was marked by her infectious laughter, unwavering kindness, and a deep love for her family. Though she never married or had children of her own, Tia Gloria was a cherished aunt to her numerous nieces and nephews. She was the beloved aunt of Humberto and Rosie Ovalle, Beto Ovalle Jr. and Lorrie Dolan, Marco and Denise Keller, Crystal Escamilla along with grand nieces and nephews, Jared, Ryan, Rose, Dennis, Jacob and Scarlett, all of whom reside in McAllen, Texas. Her extended family in Mexico City, including the Familia Rodriguez Salinas, Familia Salinas Trejo, Familia Salinas Gonzalez, Familia Salinas Hernandez and Familia Salinas Sanchez, will fondly remember her loving nature and her ability to make every family gathering a memorable one. Gloria was preceded in death by her parents, Trinidad and Paula Salinas, her sister Luz Salinas and her brothers Jesus, Moises, and Fausto Salinas.

For 30 years, Gloria worked at La Campana Fabric Store. Her colleagues and customers became a second family to her. She thought of the owner, Lili Arias, not only as her boss but as another beloved niece. She had a huge smile and friendly demeanor for everyone that came into the store.  Gloria's dedication to her work was evident in the care she took with each person who walked through the store's doors.

Music was one of Gloria’s passions. She had an eclectic taste, ranging from classical music along with the compositions of Ray Conniff and Agustin Lara. Gloria was also known to cut a rug to Rock and Roll, Cha-Cha-Cha and Mambo.

Gloria's life was characterized by three distinct qualities: she was loving, funny, and friendly. She found humor in everyday life events and was always ready with a "chiste" or "dicho". She would always extend a hand of friendship to those in need, and to love and give generously without reservation. These will be the hallmarks of her memory.

 In honor of Tia Gloria’s generosity, you have the option to donate, in her name, to Emily's Meals of McAllen, which feeds the homeless daily. Please make checks payable to Our Lady of Sorrows Church with a memo “Emily's Meals”, or a Cash App donation to $denisekell Memo “Emily's Meals”.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm on Wednesday July 10, 2024 with the Holy Rosary being recited at 7:00 pm at Rivera Funeral Home of McAllen. Celebration of Life Mass will be held at 10:00 am Thursday, July 11, 2024 at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church in McAllen. Interment will follow at La Piedad Cemetery in McAllen. Service arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Rivera Funeral Home of McAllen.  

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gloria Salinas, please visit our floral store.