Gloria Mariscal Martinez, 88 of Superior, Arizona passed away on December 16, 2017 in her home surrounded by her husband and children. She was born in Miami, Az on April 26, 1929 and moved to Superior in 1941 at the age of 12.
She was a graduate of the class of 1947 from Superior High School and attended the teachers college at Northern Arizona University for two years prior to marrying Carlos R. Martinez in 1949. Their wedding ceremony was celebrated in the original St Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Superior.
She is preceded in death by her father George Mariscal, “My Friend”, her mother Lupe Acker Mariscal, her brother, George Mariscal Jr. and her grandson, Bobby Martinez. Gloria is survived by her beloved husband of 68 years and children, George (Olga), Gloria (Al), John, Virginia “Gina”, Carlos (Patricia) and Tony (Christine). 12 grandchildren, Louie, George, Keone, Jesirae, Xavier, Michael, Matthew, Carlos, Felicia, Tony, Jacob and Makayla. 17 great grandchildren and 5 great, great grandchildren. She is also survived by many special nieces, nephews and cousins.
Gloria was a substitute teacher for Superior Unified School District while returning to and graduating from Arizona State University in 1977 with a bachelor’s degree in Education. During her tenure, in addition to teaching Junior High School, in the evening she would prepare adults to pass the test awarding a GED. During this time Gloria also, prepared adults to test for their citizenship as well as teaching catechism for the St. Francis Parish. Gloria retired as an Educator in 2004.
Gloria was a member of the VFW auxiliary, Beta Sigma Phi sorority, the St Francis of Assisi Finance Council and volunteered at the Superior Chamber of Commerce welcoming visitors to the town because she was enthused about anything to do with the town of Superior. She also worked on the annual church Fiesta Celebration each year selling tickets, hand crafting cascarones and organizing donated cakes for the “cake walk”.
Gloria touched countless lives with her zest for life, her passion for education and her faith in God.
Visitation was Friday, December 22, 2017 from 9 to 10 a.m. A rosary and mass honoring Gloria was at 10 a.m. at St Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Superior, Az. Interment is at Fairview Cemetery.
Online Guest book: www.SuperiorFuneral.com.
