Authorities said the victim's son called 911 after finding his mother inside the home at 1900 W. Carlton Place at about 2:20 a.m.
Police said the residence was an assisted-living home, and there were three people being cared for at the home. Garcia also lived at the home with her elderly mother and two sons.
"She was the best lady you can describe. We never saw her mad," said neighbor Wesley Galaureac. "She was a quiet lady. She was born to be a caregiver."
No suspects are in custody. Police interviewed the son who made the 911 call, but they are looking for the victim's other son, 25-year-old Marvin Horatio Cipullo, to talk to him.
Garcia's cousin said Cipullo has had a mental disorder, and Garcia had tried to get him help.
The victim's vehicle is missing, but police are not sure if Cipullo has the vehicle or the person who committed the murder has it. It is described as silver 2002 two-door Honda Civic, with tinted windows and CA license plate 6LTW902.
Anyone with information is urged to call the Santa Ana Police Department at (714) 245-8390.
