Gilda Ruth C. Jennings was born in San Antonio, Texas on November 21, 1950 and departed this life on February 24, 2016. She was the second daughter of Ann Harris Jennings of Dallas, Texas and Aubrey Odell Jennings of Gilmer, Texas. Gilda was incredibly smart and talented. Her passion for the theater arts began in high school. From there, she studied at the historic Pasadena Playhouse and then earned her Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts in theatre at the prestigious Loyola Marymount University where she developed a love for Shakespearian plays.

Gilda leaves to rejoice in her memory, her sister Carolyn Jennings Vallas, Charlottesville, Virginia; brother Raymond Jennings, Seattle, Washington; four nephews: Kristian Vallas, Marina del Rey, California; Jason Vallas, Dublin, California; Anthony Vallas, Bellflower, California; Raymond Jennings Jr., Houston, Texas; and one niece: Yvonne Jennings, Long Beach, California; and one great niece: Mia Vallas, Dublin, California; six great nephews: DaSean Lewis, Spokane, Washington; Kelly Vallas, Dublin, California; Michael Vallas, Dublin, California; Kingsley Vallas, Marina Del Rey, California; Carter Vallas, Bellflower, California; Kensington Vallas, Marina del Rey, California.

Gilda loved the three beautiful ladies that are married to her nephews: Breegan Vallas, Connie Vallas, and Melissa Vallas. She enjoyed being around them. They made her feel young and beautiful. She was dedicated to her mother and enjoyed all of their fun times together. She enjoyed structure and routine in her daily life.