Guadalupe “Lupe” Gomez was born in Santa Barbara on December 12, 1932 to Carmen and Rosario Navarro, one of six children. Lupe passed peacefully in her home on Dec. 13, 2025, one day after her 93rd birthday surrounded by her loving family.
She is remembered for her life full of love, generosity, resilience and devotion. Her caring ways started as a very young girl.
When she was 13, her father lost his eyesight. Lupe offered support to ensure food could still be put on the table. She drove her father through the streets of Santa Barbara, as he sold fruits and vegetables to local families.
Her characteristics of responsibility and perseverance she displayed continued throughout her life.
After high school, Lupe received her beautician license and worked as a hairdresser in Santa Barbara. Shortly thereafter, she met Rudy Gomez, and after a brief courtship, they became engaged and were married on Sept. 11, 1955.
They immediately started a family, having three children Anthony, Anna and John. Together, they worked hard to raise their family, creating an unbreakable bond of love and trust that continues today.
Lupe was a modern-day Uber driver long before the term existed, always making sure her family and friends got where they needed to go. She chauffeured everyone in the family’s 1955 Chevy Nomad station wagon, a car that remains in the family today and is still cherished.
In 1976, Lupe encouraged and supported her husband in joining a small local business Helistrand, Inc., which was later transformed into a wire and cable manufacturing company. Its success and legacy continue to this day, now spanning three generations.
Family always came first to Lupe. Her children were her pride and joy. She loved them fiercely like a momma bear, but her love extended to all.
We fondly remember our home was an open door at any time. At night, there was always room at her table for others. Many would frequently join, since she was an excellent cook, best known for her traditional Mexican dishes. Her children will always remember those special dishes prepared for special occasions.
Throughout her life, Lupe quietly fed and supported countless family members and friends. Her kindness and generosity will remain appreciated by many.
Lupe is preceded by her husband Rudolph ‘Rudy’ Gomez; her loving parents Carmen and Rosario; sister Francis Diaz; and brothers Mario, Raul, Raymond and Hector Navarro.
She is survived by her three loving children Anthony (JoAnn), Anna (Steve Tetherow) John (Jan); grandchildren Kendra, Dalen and Morgan Gomez, Nicole Tetherow-Bellotti, Sean Tetherow, and Erin Gomez; great grandchildren Aubrey Rose Hilliard and Bennett Bellotti; ;along with numerous nieces and nephews.
The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to all the caregivers who have helped over the years, especially her devoted caregiver Patricia Guzman, who never left her side these past 11 years.
Lastly, a special thanks to Vicki Dean Gomez who offered additional support this past year, as well as Leslie and Victoria with Hospice Care for the compassionate care and support.
In honor of Lupe’s wishes a private cemetery service was held.
A Celebration of Life with lunch served will be at 1 p.m. Jan. 30 at the El Paseo Restaurant in Santa Barbara. The family kindly asks guests to RSVP through https://everloved.com/life-of/guadalupe-lupe-gomez/ or text Anthony at 805-705-3775.