One may argue a mother’s love, a grandmother’s devotion and a great grandmother's comfort is unmatched. If you were fortunate enough to know Sally T. Rios, you know there is no argument.
On September 1, 2026, Sally, a long-time San Jose resident, went to her heavenly home to spend eternity with the Lord and be reunited with her husband Paul V. Rios and daughter Terry Ann Rios.
She is survived by her beloved brothers Tony, and Manuel, sisters Francis, Connie, Rachel, and Rosalinda, sons Paul Jr., and Thomas, daughters Dolores, Victoria, Betty, Patricia, Christine, Jennie, Debbie, and Terry (Parkinson), grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. In some shape, or form, Sally had a hand (or broom) in raising them all.
As a Christian woman with the utmost faith, the love of the Lord shone throughout Sally’s lifetime. In adulthood, it started in 1951 as a loving wife to her husband whom she credited with modeling the importance of family that still thrives today. Then as a mother of 11 children, 22 grandchildren, 34 great children, and 5 great-great grandchildren, her devotion never wavered. All the birthday parties, graduations, and special events; she was there. All the tragedies, trials and difficult times; she prayed. And she prayed. And she prayed some more. Constantly, Sally stood in the gap for her family, brothers and sisters in the church, and anyone else who needed God to intervene. In her latter years, if she wasn’t seen doing her “chores” or completing her pile of “seek-a-word puzzles,” she was in her bible seeking the word. Somehow, at a moment's notice, Sally always knew the right scripture to say to encourage or comfort her loved ones. Verses like Jeremiah 33:3, one of her favorites, would be recited when she wanted to remind them that God is in control. And if that was not enough, Sally, Mom, Grandma, or Sister Rios, would give you her famous “five minutes.”
To have known her embrace, was to know that her love, devotion, and comfort were unmatched. It was her gift: a gift she sacrificially shares with her family and friends, even now. Without a shadow of a doubt we are truly blessed.
Altar of eternal gratitude plus thanksgiving for the life of Sally T. Rios in Christ; February 3, 1934–September 1, 2026. Amen.