Sylvia Gamba Arbalaez Cavaiola

Sylvia Gamba Arbalaez Cavaiola
March 11, 1945 - August 3, 2023
La Jolla In Loving Memory of Sylvia Gamba Arbalaez Cavaiola

Sylvia Gamba Arbalaez Cavaiola born in Bogota, Colombia on March 11, 1945, and bid her fond farewell in La Jolla, California on August 3rd, 2023. She was 78 years young. A remarkable soul whose age was but a number, Sylvia's journey was one of undeniable strength and unwavering courage as she bravely battled pancreatic cancer for the past 7 years.

Throughout her extraordinary life, Sylvia proved to be an eternal source of inspiration, embodying the spirit of a true warrior. Despite the challenges she faced, she met each obstacle head-on with optimism and a determination to experience life to the fullest. Sylvia's devotion to her husband, two sons, four granddaughters, two daughters-in-law, lovable dogs, numerous friends and extended family was a testament to her capacity for love.

Born as an only child in Bogotá, Colombia, Sylvia's story unfolded as she embarked on a new chapter in the United States just before middle school. An academic enthusiast from the start, she excelled as a student, cultivating a passion for languages and the arts. Graduating from Wakefield High school in Washington, D.C. in 1963, she continued her education at Georgetown University, where she earned a bachelor's degree in linguistics and a masters degree in French.

Shortly after graduation, she pursued a lifelong career in high school education, teaching Spanish, French, and Peer Counseling in both Virginia and California public schools. During her years as a high school educator, Sylvia touched many lives, but it was her time at Mission Bay High School in San Diego that defined her most. While there, she had a profound impact on faculty, coaches and students. From pro surfers, peer counselors, local sports legends, to the everyday Southern California "PB kid", Sylvia's influence resonated deeply with those fortunate enough to cross her path.

Her convictions were steadfast, and her advocacy for various causes was unapologetic. Guided by the principle that "una acción vale más que mil palabras" or "actions speak louder than words", she championed her beliefs, especially when it came to supporting those in need - and student advocacy was one such cause.

As a working mom of 2, balancing the demands of her career while also being an unwavering supporter, she would often spend all day traversing Southern California taking her sons to various sporting events and attempting' to videotape any (and every) scrimmage or game. Most of her in-game filming showed the ceiling of a gym or the wrong end of the action - however, it was clear in the audio, ie. Spanish laced profanity' her attention to detail of missed calls or any fouls against her sons that were most likely stated in her opinion as "intentional". Family always came first. No matter what. A sentiment underscored by her unwavering presence at her husband's Morse High School basketball games over the span of 25 years.

Perhaps the thing in life she treasured as much as her husband, sons and dogs, was her role as loving grandmother. Her four (4) granddaughters - Aviana (14), Georgina aka "Gigi" (11), Isla (8) and Lucca (8), were the most precious joys of her life. Her pride in their achievements knew no bounds, whether she was cheering from the sidelines at water polo, lacrosse, soccer, basketball games, bragging about them on social media, or expertly curating her world-famous collages in their honor. Being a grandmother was a role that suited her perfectly and showcased her warmth and affection.

Even in the face of her cancer diagnosis, Sylvia remained an unwavering source of inspiration and a steadfast friend. Her indelible spirit prevailed until her final breath, leaving a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come. As she let go and bid us all adieu, heaven undoubtedly welcomed an angel - one with a feisty Colombian spirit and a heart adorned in LA Laker purple/gold. She was and (always will be) the star that shined the brightest in our lives and, undeniably, the cherished matriarch of our family.

Sylvia is survived by her husband of 55 years Bob Cavaiola, sons Bobby and Joseph, daughter in -laws Carrie and Tricia, her four granddaughters - Aviana, Gigi, Isla, and Lucca as well as her gigantic Chocolate Lab named Benson. In remembrance of Sylvia Gamba Arbalaez Cavaiola -and in lieu of a traditional memorial service - Sylvia has requested to "...just have a really big fiesta with her family/friends while watching a beautiful La Jolla sunset".

In her efforts to help fight the battle against disenfranchised students, she asked that any donations be directed in her name toward The La Jolla High School Scholarship Foundation (LJHSSF). This is a local non-profit organization in which she was very fond of - with its mission is to assist public high school students from La Jolla High School in their effort to go to college. The LJHSSF Foundation exists to grant scholarships to deserving students who do not have the financial means to pursue higher education. Please consider donating in Sylvia's name to: the La Jolla Scholarship Foundation 750 Nautilus St , La Jolla Ca 92037.

Sylvia would always like to toast an evening while celebrating any occasion with her family and friends -whilst holding a margarita in one hand and a grandchild in the other-

Arriba, abajo, al centro, pa' dentro!

Please sign the guest book online at legacy.com/obituaries/ lajollalight