Ann-Marie Garcia-McPherson

AnnMarie Garcia McPherson, aged 77, of Castro Valley, passed away on August 1st, 2026, surrounded by loved ones. Born on September 15th, 1948 in Denver, Colorado, AnnMarie lived a life marked by kindness, dedication, and quiet strength.

Throughout her career in Business Administration, AnnMarie earned the respect of colleagues and friends alike. Yet her greatest joy in life was caring for her beloved special needs daughter, Rena. AnnMarie approached motherhood with unwavering devotion, patience, and love — creating a home filled with safety, encouragement, and warmth. Her bond with Rena was the heart of her world, and her gentle strength touched everyone who witnessed it.

Beyond being a devoted wife and mother, AnnMarie embraced life with a spirit of adventure. She loved exploring the world around her — from spontaneous road trips to journeys across the globe. She climbed to the tops of Mayan temples, floated peacefully down rivers on her back, canoed across remote starlit lakes, and soared through the treetops on zip lines. Whether traveling far from home or enjoying a romantic cruise, AnnMarie found joy in discovery, movement, and the beauty of the world.

AnnMarie is survived by her daughter Rena, her husband Anthony Gallardo, and her immediate family: Brother Ed, In-laws, Jason, Samantha, Sean, Tabby, Jace, and Katie — along with so many other cherished family members and friends whose lives were brightened by her love, humor, and generosity.

She is preceded in death by her father Felix, her mother Mary, her brother Henry, and her sister in law Paula, all of whom she held close in her heart throughout her life.

A service honoring AnnMarie’s life will be held on October 4th, 2026, at Sunset Community Church, 2200 Arroyo Rd., Livermore, CA 94550. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Sunset Community Church, reflecting AnnMarie’s lifelong commitment to faith, community, and compassion.