Gaylia “Ditty” Michelle Urenda (née Solano), lovingly known as Nani, passed away peacefully at the age of 81 in Ventura, California, after a courageous and grace-filled battle with cancer.

She was surrounded by family who traveled from near and far to be by her side, just as she had always shown up for them.

Born and raised in Carpinteria, Gaylia was the daughter of Dorothy “Mickey” Guillen and Fidel Solano.

She was raised with love and strength by her mother and her cherished Aunt Isabel Pimentel, affectionately known as Tía “Chavela,” whose resilience, faith and grace left a lasting imprint on Gaylia’s life.

Growing up on 7th Street and later living on Camellia Circle, Gaylia formed deep roots and lifelong friendships in the town she always called home.

Above all else, Gaylia was devoted to her family. She was a loving wife, mother, sister, aunt, grandmother and great-grandmother, and she carried each role with pride and heart.

She also built a remarkable career in medical software that took her across the country, embracing travel, adventure, and a jet-set life that gave her endless stories to share.

Her curiosity, sharp mind, and joy for living were contagious.

Gaylia is survived by her soulmate Albert Urenda, with whom she reunited after 30 years apart. Together they shared 40 deeply loving years, and Albert remained her steady companion and devoted caregiver until the very end.

She also leaves behind her daughters Lisa (Rudy) and Trisha; beloved grandchildren Meli, Mari (Joey), Cameron and Malachi, who lovingly helped care for her in her final days; first great-grandchild Oliver, who brought her immense joy and light during the last two years of her life; brother Ernie Solano; and many nieces and nephews who adored her.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Melvin Solano.

Those who knew Gaylia will remember her quick wit, unforgettable laugh, impeccable sense of style, political insight, generosity, and extraordinary memory, especially when it came to birthdays.

Her home was always open, warm and welcoming, a reflection of the strong women who shaped her and the family she so lovingly led.

Her faith was a constant source of comfort, beautifully captured in one of her favorite passages from Psalm 46:5: “He is with her; He is within me.”

A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 19 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 1532 Linden Ave., Carpinteria. A private reception will follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Gaylia’s memory to Save the Children.