Gloria Macias Larson

It is with deep sorrow and love that we announce the death of Gloria Macias Larson, who went home to be with Jesus on August 20, 2025. Born on September 2, 1931, Gloria had a laugh that could fill a room and heart of tenacious generosity. In 2017, Gloria's husband Arnold, of 68 years, passed to glory. Her sister, Esther Doctors, predeceased her. Gloria is survived by her brother, Bill Hybert and five of her six children: Jim Larson (Annette), Steve Larson (Linda), Tom Larson (Marjy), David Larson and Beth Cavall. She is also survived by 11 grandchildren and 28 great grandchildren and many nephews and nieces.

Gloria's deep faith in Jesus Christ was reflected throughout her life in all she did. She became a Christian during her childhood and joined the Beverly Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Los Angeles. Her faith journey was hardly easy, but she followed a Savior who gave her strength.

Professionally, Gloria was a schoolteacher for about 40 years, teaching primarily Kindergarten, but she also taught other elementary school grades, occasionally serving as a remedial teacher. Gloria primarily taught in San Jose Christian School and Canterbury Christian School. She retired at 70 to care for Arnold, who had Parkinson's.

Earning her undergraduate degree in Geography and master's degree in Special Education from San Jose State University, Gloria also enjoyed a variety of hobbies including landscaping design. She utilized those skills by designing one of the homes in which the Larson family lived. In her younger years, Gloria created a backyard garden bursting with flowers and fruit trees. In addition, she was known for her cooking and baking skills providing an assortment of pies for dinners for over 200 people and cooking for numerous youth camps. Many family members and school fund raisers benefited from her cooking and sewing skills. Gloria loved to crochet and knit, creating colorful afghans, sweaters and assorted stuffed animals.

Gloria's adventures didn't stop in the kitchen. She took all six children from San Jose to Portland, Maine, driving solo and camping along the way. The youngest was only two! She made that trip more than once, and on the second and subsequent trips did it in five days flat.

Gloria would never claim credit for all her accomplishments because she knew that Jesus died for her sins and her reward was to be in heaven for eternity. Her family will miss her deeply, but they take great comfort in that she is with Jesus.