Lucy Theresa Zubia

In Loving Memory of Lucy Zubia
November 8, 1946 – November 2, 2025
Lucy Zubia, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 2nd, 2025, surrounded by the love and comfort of her family. She went to her forever home with the Lord, where her beloved son JR and her Grandmother, Nicolasa, awaited her with open arms.
Born on November 8th, 1946, in Bakersfield, California, Lucy entered this world to her loving parents, Aurelia Alvarado Peña, and Ponciano Peña. She was raised by her grandmother, Nicolasa, with whom she shared a deep and special bond. Lucy's life was one built on love, faith, and an unshakable devotion to her family and community. Lucy married the love of her life, David Zubia, and together they shared 43 beautiful years filled with laughter, devotion, and unwavering love. Their union was blessed with seven children - Anthony Zubia, Albert Gonzales, Renee Zubia, Sonia Zubia, Billy Cleveland Jr, Stephanie Gonzales, and Antoine Cleveland - each one holding a special place in her heart. Lucy's love extended to her 27 grandchildren and 33 great-grandchildren, all of whom she adored and cherished deeply. Her greatest joy was having her family together, filling her home with warmth, laughter, and love. She made sure everyone felt special and cared for - her heart was big enough for everyone. She was preceded in death by her parents, Aurelia Alvarado Peña, Ponciano Peña, Socorro Peña, Marci Peña Aries, and her son Billy Ray Cleveland jr. She is survived by her loving husband David Zubia and their 7 kids. Her siblings Angie Garcia, Ruth Gamboa, Delfino Peña, Cecilia Luque, Maggie Garcia, Alex Guerrero, and Jesse Peña.
Lucy grew up in Bakersfield and attended Guadalupe Elementary and Garces High School, where she was known for her kindness and quick wit. She later attended Bakersfield College, studying Early Childhood Development - which was fitting, since she had been "training" to manage chaos since raising her own kids. She went on to become a preschool director and, later, a crossing guard - because even after all her kids were grown, she still wasn't done telling people when to stop and when to go! Lucy dedicated her life to helping others. From serving as a preschool director to working as a crossing guard, she found joy in caring for children and connecting with families in her community. Her kindness, generosity, and compassion touched countless lives, and she was loved by everyone who knew her.
Lucy had a strong faith and was a devoted Catholic who believed deeply in the power of prayer. She faithfully attended church and always reminded those around her to be thankful and to trust in God's plan. Her faith was her guiding light, and it carried her through life with grace and strength. She found great joy in cooking for her family and friends - especially when making her famous tamales. The smell of fresh tamales and the warmth of the kitchen during the holidays will forever remind her loved ones of her love and dedication. No matter how hard it was or how long it took, Lucy always made sure every family received their tamale order, because making others happy brought her pure joy. She was known far and wide for her amazing tamales - a tradition that brought people together year after year. "Just so you know, she won't be doing it this year.
Lucy loved spending time outdoors and especially enjoyed camping trips with her family. Whether it was roasting marshmallows by the fire, laughing under the stars, or simply enjoying nature together, those trips created some of her family's favorite memories. She always made sure everyone had what they needed - and somehow, she always packed enough food for an army. When she wasn't camping or surrounded by loved ones, Lucy could be found cheering for her favorite team, the Philadelphia Eagles, every Sunday. Win or lose, she watched every game with passion and loyalty, making game day a family tradition of its own.
Lucy loved music and dancing - she could dance the night away with a smile that lit up the room. Though it's hard to say goodbye, we find comfort in knowing she's dancing for eternity now, hand in hand with her beloved son JR in heaven. Lucy will be remembered as loving, caring, and supportive - a woman whose faith, generosity, and compassion knew no bounds. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.