Gloria G Medina

Gloria G. Medina was born August 22, 1938 in Bakersfield, California to John and Marian Bonilla. A lifelong resident of Bakersfield, she grew up rooted in family and community, attending East High School and forming the foundations of a life defined by love, laughter and joy. Soon after high school, she met the love of her life, Raymond Medina. The two married on February 12, 1960 just two days before her favorite holiday of Valentine’s Day, and they began a partnership that would span decades and center on family. Together they raised five children; Lisa (Joe) Ayala, Rene (Debbie) Medina, Lora Medina, Lena (Richard) Valdovinos, and Ric Medina and built a home filled with love, music and occasionally a few dogs. Ray and Gloria had a deep and enduring love for dance. Whether they were in motion together in the living room or at a dance hall surrounded by loved ones, they brought energy and light wherever the rhythm of life moved them. After the birth of her fifth child, Gloria made a definitive decision to return to her education. In 1971, she proudly earned her high school diploma which was a testament to her perseverance and commitment to personal growth. Her dedication to others carried into her professional life and in 1975, Gloria began working for the Bakersfield City School District as a teacher’s aide supporting students attending McKinley, Jefferson and Noble Elementary Schools. During her time spent at Noble Elementary, she worked closely with bilingual students offering them guidance, encouragement and care to those who needed it the most. Following her years in education, Gloria worked as a Private Branch Exchange (PBX) operator for San Joaquin Hospital for nearly 25 years where she became a familiar and dependable presence until she was 72 years old. But her greatest achievement was making a home for her children and being a Nana to her 13 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren and 7 great-great grandchildren. She embraced that role with strength, warmth and an unwavering devotion to nurture and spoil each one of them. She will be remembered for her unconditional love and her joyful laugh. In her final days, Gloria was lovingly cared for by her granddaughter, Elissa Valdovinos whose devotion and compassion brought comfort and peace. The two shared a deeply special bond, one marked by tenderness, gratitude and enduring love. She is preceded in death by her husband Raymond, parents, John and Marian Bonilla, brothers Michael, Danny and John-John, her sister Monica Montero and her granddaughter, Alicia Ayala.

Gloria G Medina

August 22, 1938 - April 23, 2026

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Gloria G Medina

August 22, 1938 - April 23, 2026

365 Days of Grief Support

Explore

About Us

Grief & Healing

What We Do

Obituaries

Plan Ahead

Resources

Contact Info