Matthew 25:23

Herminia Ortega Gonzales was born on June 19, 1927, in Rio Hondo, Texas.   On Jan. 28, 1945, she married Guadalupe T. Gonzales who preceded her in death on May 6, 1999, after 54 years of marriage.

Upon arriving in Manteca in the mid-1960s, Mrs. Gonzales and her family became members of the First Assembly of God Church under the leadership of Rev. Donald Annas. Under the umbrella of First Assembly, “la Hermana Gonzales” began a 40 plus years of ministry to the Hispanic community in Manteca.   She was a lay pastor, Sunday school teacher, prayer warrior, worship leader and also picked up children along the way to make sure they got to Sunday school. From her own home, she humbly ministered to those most in need by providing food, clothing and making arrangements for shelter when needed.  She freely gave without asking anything in return. Her years of service were fulfilling and an expression of Christ’s love and compassion.

Herminia is survived by her two daughters:  Rose Schmidt and husband Jerry of Manteca, Irene Israel and husband Richard,  Irvine, CA, three sons:  Homer Gonzales wife Sharon, Albuquerque, NM, JR  Gonzales and wife Linda of Red Bluff, CA and Eloy Gonzales and wife Cindy of Dallas, OR. Her grandchildren are; David Gonzales, Ron Schmidt, Nathan Gonzales, Sandra Anderson, Catherine Witmer, Angela Chambers, Jennifer Upton, Jonathan Gonzales, Cedric Israel, and Colin Israel and three great-granddaughters:  Rachel Schmidt, Hazel Gonzales, Alexandra Anderson

In addition Herminia is survived by her sisters  Elodia Longoria and Dora Quintana, both of Texas

Mrs. Gonzales went home to be with the Lord on Dec. 14, 2010

Services for Mrs. Gonzales are under the direction of P.L. Fry and Son Funeral Home of Manteca. To celebrate her beautiful life Services will be, Tuesday, Dec. 21, 2010. The Rev. Don Annas will be sharing thoughts on her ministry. She will be laid to rest at East Union Cemetery, Manteca.