Josefina Villarmino Mendoza passed away peacefully on February 7, 2021 at the age of 86, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on May 15, 1934 in Isabel, Leyte, Philippines.

At the age of 13, she had her very first boyfriend who was her one and only love of her life—Erming (Herminigildo). They got married on May 14, 1954. Together, they had 8 children. She was a devoted wife even after he had passed away (she never remarried). She said her husband was the most handsome man in her hometown and he reminded her of Elvis Presley.

She was the owner of a retail store for 35 years until she moved to the United States (Pittsburg, California) to live with her eldest daughter Fe and son-in-law Anastacio on July 30, 1993.

She was an athlete (basketball, track, boxing) during her younger years and enjoyed playing mahjong, bingo, and attending "sabong" (cockfighting) tournaments. She had a contagious smile, she was playful, and loved to dance (especially the cha-cha). She enjoyed watching wrestling, boxing, and the TV show JAG because the main character reminded her of her late husband.

She was a devoted Catholic who had a passion to serve and love the Lord. Throughout her life, she loved helping people— especially her family, friends and the poor. She lived by her motto "ayaw kamo pag hakug, aron dili kamo hakugan" (meaning don't be ungenerous; give and you shall receive). She was well-known for her kind and generous heart. She is loved and will be missed by many!

She will be lovingly remembered by her children Fe (Anastacio), Maria Linda (Abelardo), Ricardo (Angela), Juanita, Celia, Eulogia (Diomedes), and Jesus (Nimfa); 18 grandchildren Blessyl Ann, Fryl Ann, Joniely, Aprilene Eve, Oliver, Vio Jay, Stefani Gil, Jasper Ville, Mariel, Klenth John, Jestone, Chris Michael, Patricia Rose, Prince Richard, Rigeber, Cristine Jane, Lorenz May, Angeilyn; 18 great-grandchildren Jacob Ace, Jayson Ace, Ethan, Erela, Enzo, Oriana Syden, Liv Ondrea, Zia Obrel, Light Christian, Christian Levi, Luke Azriel, Cloud Jhon, Khin Jhie, Kyle Jhay, Kyle Fourd, Rigeber Scye, Ashriel Joey, JL Harith; sister Nena and numerous other family members and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 35 years, Herminigildo; son Augustine; mother Irenea; father Domingo; brothers Alvino, Beinbenoto, Florentino, Atualfo, Lorito; and sisters Florencia, Antonia, Clotildi.

Due to COVID-19, a Celebration of her Life will be held at a later date when her ashes arrive back in the Philippines.