Gloria Almarza, age 95, of Orlando, FL, passed away peacefully into the loving arms of
the Lord, at The Mayflower at Winter Park on February 2nd, 2026. She was born in
Havana, Cuba on May 7th, 1930. She had nine siblings, including her twin sister – they
were always up to something! She met her husband in Cuba where they were married
and started a family. They left Cuba in 1966 and arrived in the United States with the
hopes and dreams of raising their daughter in a free country. They settled in Miami, FL
and she became a dental assistant. In the early 90's they relocated to Orlando, FL to
help her daughter raise her only grandson. She was married for 48 years, until her
husband passed away in 2006. She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She
was always up for an adventure. She enjoyed traveling, going to the beach, eating at
new restaurants, going to the movies, shopping for a new outfit, spending time at
Disney World and attending concerts with her husband. She enjoyed gardening and
spent hours tending to her plants. In her later years she enjoyed spending hours with
the family German Shepherd – they had a very special bond. She had a beautiful heart,
was very warm and giving. She had many cherished friendships throughout her life. She
had a strong faith that carried her through difficult times. She was adored by her family
and was a great role model. She lived her life with dignity, honor and respect towards
others. Her life was defined by the lives she touched during her stay on this Earth. She
leaves this life to enjoy a reunion with family and friends who preceded her in death.
She is survived by her daughter, Espe Almarza Anderson, son-in-law, Richard L.
Anderson and grandson, Alexis A. Diaz. A funeral Mass is scheduled for Friday,
February 6th, 2026 at 11:30am at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church in Winter Park, FL.