Gloria Jean Leija

Gloria Jean Leija (Martinez), beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on the morning of August 30, 2025, her daughter Monique and grandson Alexander were by her side. She was 77 years old. 

Gloria was born on August 8, 1948, in Porterville, California, to Ralph Martinez and Rita (Fabela) Gonzalez. Gloria was the eldest of seven children. She loved her siblings deeply and helped care for them as if they were her own. 

Gloria shared her life with her lifelong partner, Bonifacio “Boni” Hernandez, for 42 years. He preceded her in death on November 24, 2024. The two were deeply devoted to one another and to their family. 

She was the proud mother of four children: Ruben Leija Jr., Rita Jean Leija, Spence Leija, and Monique Hernandez. She was also the cherished grandmother of Ruben Facio and Alexia (children of Ruben Jr.); Stephen Lucio, Alexander Joshua, Benjamin Gabriel, Gabriella Jean (Rita’s children), Breanna and Emily Jean (Spence’s daughters). Gloria was fiercely protective of her family and loved them with all her heart. They were her greatest blessing and truly meant the world to her. 

Caring for others was her calling. At just 18, she became a nurse and devoted her life to the profession. She was known for her deep compassion and was a fierce advocate for her patients and their families, always ensuring they received the care and dignity they deserved. Many of her colleagues became lifelong friends, and she treated them like family. Through her many years in nursing, she touched countless lives—offering comfort and healing during the hardest of times. 

Fondly known as “The Judge,” Gloria was recognized for her sharp wit and candid opinions. Her strength, humor, and honesty left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her. 

She loved cooking for both her family and her work family. Her tacos, tamales, enchiladas, and chile rellenos were legendary, and her homemade tortillas were a favorite among her grandchildren—she never hesitated to make a fresh batch when they came to visit. 

Gloria had a deep love for music, especially classic oldies and ranchera music, which filled her home with joy and warmth. She was an avid news watcher with a strong interest in politics and true crime, always ready to share her thoughts. She also loved action films, with Die Hard and Lethal Weapon among her all-time favorites. 

In her youth, she was known for her iconic hairstyles and impeccable fashion sense, Gloria often designed and sewed her own clothes. Her creativity and style were a beautiful extension of her personality—confident, elegant, and one-of-a-kind. 

Gloria was fiercely devoted to those she loved, always offering protection, guidance, and unwavering support. Her home was a haven—a place of comfort and care for friends and extended family in times of need. Her legacy of love, strength, and generosity will continue to live on through her children, grandchildren, and all those whose lives she touched. 

Services: Family and friends are invited to honor Gloria’s life at Myers Funeral Home. A viewing will be held on Thursday, September 18, from 2–4 p.m., followed by a rosary from 4–5 p.m. A funeral Mass will take place at 11 a.m. on Friday, September 19, at St. Anne's Church. Graveside burial will be private

Arrangements are being handled by Myers Funeral Service & Crematory, 248 N. "E" Street, Porterville, California. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.myersfuneral.com.