Gloria De La Peña, 96, of San Antonio, Texas, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on July 11, 2025.

Born in 1929 in San Antonio to Felix and Elvira (Campos) de la Rosa, Gloria was the third of six children and the first daughter. She met the love of her life, Hilario De La Peña, when they were in grade school, and they married in 1951 at San Fernando Cathedral. Together, they raised five children and put all of them through Catholic schools — an accomplishment that brought her immense joy and fulfillment.

One of Gloria and Hilario's first trips together as teenagers was climbing Enchanted Rock, a special experience they later shared with their children and grandchildren. Over the years, they traveled across the country, logging countless miles visiting family and celebrating graduations, weddings and other milestones.

As the first daughter in her family, Gloria took that role to heart, caring for her parents for many years while also raising her own family with love and dedication. She was the backbone of her family, caring deeply for her loved ones, supporting their educational and extracurricular activities. Gloria actively volunteered at her children's schools and served as a longtime Girl Scout cookie manager, able to account for every box sold and dollar earned. This dedication was recognized by the Archdiocese of San Antonio.

Gloria's home was always filled with the wonderful aroma of her cooking and baking, and she was especially proud to see her own grandmother's empanada recipe carried on by her children and grandchildren. Her home was a family gathering spot and was filled with love, good food, and sweet treats.

A devout Catholic, Gloria was known for her steadfast faith; many turned to her for prayers, trusting that her deep belief would help guide them through tests, illness, interviews and travels.

Gloria is survived by her five children, Hilario Jr. (Sylvia), Sylvia (Xavier), Teresa (Chuck), Rose (Barry), and Elizabeth (John); nine grandchildren; four great-grandsons; one sister; three sisters-in-law; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Hilario; her parents; three brothers; and a sister.

Gloria was deeply loved and will be remembered for her faith, kindness, and lifelong devotion to family.

Visitation will begin on Tuesday, July 22, at 5:00pm with a Rosary to be recited at 7:00pm at the Angelus Chapel.  Funeral Mass will be offered on Wednesday, July 23, at 11:00am at Holy Rosary Catholic Church.  Interment will follow in San Fernando Cemetery # 2.