We are deeply saddened to announce that our beloved mother and grandmother Eloise Piña, who filled our lives with laughter and love, passed away peacefully at the age of 94, while surrounded by her loved ones. Eloise was a remarkable woman whose presence was a gift to all who knew her. Eloise was born into a world vastly different from the one she left, she navigated her journey with grace, resilience, and an unwavering sense of humor that endeared her to everyone she met.

Eloise was born in Miami, Arizona in 1929, a place dear to her heart. Her family moved to California when she was only six years old.  She would often tell the story of her family leaving Miami late at night, with it being so dark out, and how she was afraid of driving up the canyon in an old car. They settled in the Santa Paula area, Rancho Sespe where Grandma Tillie cared for her mother Victoria who was dying of cancer. Eloise attended school there until later moving to Santa Barbara. She lived in various places in California, settling in Lompoc in her elder years. She often spoke about how she missed living in Ontario, where there were thrift shops galore, and how she walked everywhere in the hot weather she so loved. As one of eleven children, she was also a matriarch in the truest sense. The heart and soul of a large and vibrant family, consisting of her brothers, sisters, and her seven children, three sons and four daughters who were her pride and joy. Not to mention, the numerous grandchildren who were fortunate to experience her boundless love and memorable laugh. Her home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and the kind of wisdom that can only be gained through a life well-lived. She had an incredible ability to find humor in every day, a gift that she generously shared, making even the mundane moments memorable. Her hilarious attitude and sharp wit were a source of joy and comfort to her family and friends, making each gathering a treasure trove of happy memories.

Though she has left us, her legacy of love, laughter, and resilience will continue to inspire and guide us. She showed us the importance of facing life's challenges with a smile and reminded us never to take ourselves too seriously. As we say goodbye to this extraordinary woman, we find solace in the countless moments of joy she gave us, the lessons she taught us, and the immense love she shared.

Eloise is preceded in death by her eldest daughter, Dolores (Mauro) Garcia, sons; Paul (Lydia) Pina, and Jimmy Roman, and granddaughter Antonia Garcia. She leaves four children: Mark Pina, Susie Gomez, Jackie Pina, and Anna Garcia. She also leaves 11 grandchildren: Mauro, Thomas, and Angel Garcia (Dolores; Monica, Pual Pina Jr. (Paul); Benny (Crystal), Kristel Garcia & David "Cruz" Villalobos (Susie); Nicole Grant (Jackie); Joseph, Celena Garcia (Anna); 25 great-grandchildren, 9 great-great-grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and several extended family members whom she loved dearly, notably Jenny Beeton, mother of her great-granddaughter. Elouise also leaves four sisters, Frances (Richard) Martinez, Gloria (Ruben) Ruiz, Victoria Dozal, and Matilda Vaca. Siblings who have also departed are eldest brother, Santiago "Jimmy" Sifuentez, Connie (Manuel) Casio, Joe (Marie), Raul, Eddie, and Jesse Trancoso. Her dear mother, Clotilda "Tillie" Gutierrez Trancoso who passed away in 2009 at the age of 99.

Her passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, but her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to know her. She was not just the matriarch of our family; she was our guiding light, and though she may have departed from this world, her light will continue to shine brightly in all of us. Farewell, dear mother and grandmother, until we meet again.

A celebration of Eloise's life will be held on Saturday, March 9, 2024, from 1 pm-5 pm at Events Mission Valley 138 North B Street, Lompoc, CA. Today we will come together to honor her memory, share stories, and remember the laughter that she brought into our lives.