Gloria Loraine Espinosa Whitehead

1941 - 2026

Gloria Loraine Espinosa Whitehead

March 9, 1941 - February 15, 2026

Gloria Loraine Espinosa Whitehead, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, passed away on February 15, 2026, at the age of 84. She was born on March 9, 1941 to Carlos and Zeferina Espinosa in Ventura, Calif., and was raised in Simi Valley, Calif.

Gloria graduated from Simi Valley High School in 1959 and married Gary Lee Johnson the same year, embarking on a journey that would lead them to South Dakota.

In 1963, she obtained an LPN degree from St. Joseph's Hospital and returned with her husband to Simi Valley, where she dedicated most of her career to working in a doctor's office. Together, they were blessed with two daughters, Patricia and Jennifer.

In 1976 she married Robert Whitehead and in 1982 they relocated to Nebraska, where she embraced the opportunities of a new chapter in her life. She worked at Christian homes until she retired. Her hobbies included cooking, needlework, reading, taking leisurely walks, cherishing moments with her family, and participating in her church community.

Gloria is survived by her three sisters; daughters, Patricia (Keith) Jensen and Jennifer (Bill) Landanger; six grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. Her legacy of love, kindness, and dedication to her family and community will be cherished and remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Gloria was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Ernie; and grandson, Tyler.

Celebration of life service will be held February 27, 2026, at 1 p.m., at the Seventh Day Adventist church in Kearney, Neb. May her soul find eternal peace, and may her memory continue to inspire those who knew and loved her.

Condolences may be shared online at www.osrfh.com. Services are entrusted to O'Brien Straatmann Redinger Funeral and Cremation Services.