Gloria J. Sosa

Gloria J. Sosa, born July 28, 1951, in San Antonio, Texas, to Canuto Jimenez, Sr. and Antonia Jimenez, was the beloved firstborn of twelve children. A proud product of the East Central Independent School District, Gloria's roots in the community ran deep. All of her children and grandchildren would go on to graduate from the same district she cherished.

While attending East Central High School, Gloria met the love of her life, Manuel V. Sosa, Jr. Their bond grew into a beautiful marriage that lasted fifty-six years, remaining inseparable until her passing. Together, they raised seven children, who later blessed them with twelve grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren-each one a treasure to Gloria.

Gloria was talented, spirited, and full of life. She loved softball and proudly played first base for the Texas Reds. She had a beautiful voice and enjoyed singing, especially Christmas carols. George Strait was her favorite artist, and his music often filled her home. Gloria had a warm and generous heart; she loved people deeply and fiercely cherished her family. Holidays were her time to shine-she wouldn't allow anyone to help in the kitchen, insisting only that everyone arrive with an appetite. Her food was delicious because it was made with pure love, and if you were fortunate, she might even share her famous potato salad recipe. For each child, grandchild, and great-grandchild, she baked a special birthday cake made just for them.

Gloria gladly helped anyone in need. At community benefits, she was always the first to volunteer and the last to leave. She faithfully cared for her parents, taking them to appointments, running errands, and ensuring they had everything they needed. She loved playing bingo with friends and family and loyally cheered on the Dallas Cowboys and San Antonio Spurs.

Above all, Gloria's greatest passion was her love for Jesus Christ. She was a long-time member of Iglesia de Cristo under the leadership of Pastor Aurelino Urrutia (Beno). She praised the Lord with her whole heart, especially through hymns like "One Day at a Time" and "I'll Fly Away." Gloria didn't just speak love-she lived it through her actions every day.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Canuto Jimenez, Sr. and Antonia Jimenez; her siblings, Canuto Jimenez, Jr. and Daniel Jimenez; and her great-granddaughter, Gianna Grace Urbina.

Gloria is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband, Manuel Sosa, Jr.; her children, Dalia S. Urbina (Fermin), Manuel J. Sosa III (Alma), Roger J. Sosa, Monica S. Martinez (Herbert), Anna M. Resendez, Lisa M. Sosa, and Sammy Sosa (Lisa); her siblings, Olga Perez, Alicia Estrada, Reynaldo Jimenez, Mario Jimenez, Armando Jimenez, Rene Jimenez, Corina Salinas, and Nelly Lara; twelve grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; and a host of extended family and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Gloria J. Sosa lived a life of faith, service, and unending love. She will forever be remembered, honored, and deeply missed.