Loretta Louise Pao

Loretta Louise Pao passed away peacefully on Friday, April 10, 2026, in Jackson, CA, at the age of 95, surrounded by her Ohana and wearing a beautiful lei.

Born in Honolulu, Hawaii at Queen’s Hospital, Loretta was an island girl and a Pearl Harbor survivor. Though her heart always remained in the islands, she spent the majority of her adult life in the Bay Area before enjoying her final years in the mountains, close to family. A proud graduate of Punahou School, she formed lifelong friendships, including with her best friend Patricia.

Loretta was known for her feisty spirit, stubborn determination, and deep pride in her family. Affectionately called “Big G” by those who knew and loved her, she brought joy wherever she went—often marked by her love of bright colors and a playful streak of color in her hair. When she entered a room, you could always count on hearing her signature greeting: “hello everybody.”

A working mother well before it was common, Loretta built a career at the VA Hospital in Livermore and later worked alongside her husband, Gordon, helping to run their family business, Richmond Toyota.

In her retirement years, Loretta enjoyed playing Rummikub, cribbage, and cards, and most of all, “talking story” with her family. She cherished every moment spent with her loved ones and was happiest when surrounded by them—giving kisses, holding hands, and sharing laughter.

Loretta loved being a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great grandmother. Shortly before her passing, she was overjoyed to learn she would soon welcome her fourth great-great grandchild.

She is survived by her children Frank Pao, Lorey Amaro (Mike), and Lynn Evans (Fred), along with an abundance of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, and extended family. She is reunited with her husband Gordon and her daughter Charlene, who preceded her in death.

Though no formal services will be held, Loretta’s family had the great blessing of celebrating her 95th birthday with her this past February—a joyful occasion that perfectly honored her life. Her ashes will be combined with those of her husband and daughter and returned to the islands she always called home.

Loretta will be remembered for her strength, her spirit, and above all, her deep and abiding love for her Ohana.

Aloha.