Gloria Ann Villarreal, the vibrant heart of her family, passed away on January 8, 2026, in Waxahachie, Texas, at the age of 73.

Born in Ferris, Texas, to Alonzo and Amelia Escobar, Gloria grew up with a unique and cherished role as the youngest of ten children—and the only girl. Growing up in a house full of boys undoubtedly shaped the funny, witty, and resilient woman she became. A woman of faith, Gloria was baptized and loved God with all her heart. She was a master storyteller with a sharp wit and a gift for commanding a room. Gloria was truly the heartbeat of every party. Her presence was a light that drew people in, and her stories will be told by those who loved her for generations to come.

Gloria is preceded in death by her parents; her son, Alex Villarreal; her son-in-law, George Rodriguez; and seven of her beloved brothers: Alonzo Jr., Pedro, Ambrosio, Angel, Amador, Cheno, and Armando.

Gloria's legacy of love and laughter lives on through her surviving brothers, Albert and Alfred Escobar. She is also survived by her children, Sophia Villarreal-Rodriguez and Joseph Villarreal Jr. and his wife Laura. She was a proud grandmother to Aaron Villarreal and his wife Linda, Jeremy Rodriguez, Joseph Villarreal III, Benjamin Zavala, Alyssa Villarreal Short and her husband David, and Adam Villarreal and his wife Dahlia. Her joy multiplied with her great-grandchildren: Ariana Villarreal, Alayna Villarreal, Asher Villarreal, Aaron Villarreal Jr., and Jeremy Rodriguez Jr., as well as the anticipated arrival of Lucien Royce Villarreal.

After a lifetime of holding her own against nine brothers, Gloria has moved on to her next great adventure. She leaves behind a family that is better, louder, and much funnier for having known her. She didn't just attend the party; she made the party, and we will continue to celebrate her every time we share a laugh or a good story.

Service Information A service to celebrate Gloria's life will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 10:00 AM at: Waxahachie Funeral Home 1201 W Highway 287 Bypass Waxahachie, TX 75165