Viola Tan Soriano

Viola was born in Naguilian, La Union, Philippines, and spent her early years surrounded by her dear family and close-knit traditions of her hometown. She pursued higher education in Manila, earning her degree in Dentistry from Centro Escolar University. After graduating, she returned to Naguilian to begin her dental practice, where she quickly became well known and respected--so much that she was honored with a plaque in the town square. It was during that time she met her future husband, Benjamin, at his town fiesta, where she served as the guest of honor and crowned the fiesta queen. They married on March 21, 1957, though the early years of their marriage were spent apart while Benjamin served in the U.S. Navy. In 1959, Viola journeyed to the United States to join him and began their life together.

As a military wife, Viola devoted herself to supporting her husband and caring for their home during his many deployments. During these years, she welcomed three children, whom she lovingly raised through long stretches when she managed the household on her own. Although she had been a dentist in the Philippines, Viola set aside her chosen profession when she came to the United States, dedicating herself to her family while also working various jobs to help provide for them. She loved her family deeply and did everything she could to support her husband and children.

Viola dedicated her life and love to her family. Her children were her greatest joy, and she constantly made sure they were fed, protected, and surrounded with love. She cherished accompanying her husband to gatherings and enjoyed dressing up for special occasions. Viola was a beautiful woman, inside and out—strong, protective, and unwavering in her devotion. Her husband, children, and grandchildren were her world, and she held them close to her heart until the very end.

Viola is survived by her husband of 68 years, Benjamin, with whom she would have celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary later this month. She is also survived by her oldest son, Bradley; her middle son, Herbert, and his wife, Revelyn; and her grandchildren—Cynthia and her husband, Ken; Kelsie and her husband, Matt; and her grandson, Joshua. She was blessed with great‑grandchildren as well, including twins Lincoln and Theodore. Viola is also survived by her youngest daughter, Karen, and her grandchildren, Jaren-Kei and Kalena.

In closing, “Mom, Mama, Momma, Grandma, or Grandma Oola,” Viola lived a long life and is no longer living in this world, but now rests in heaven, watching over us with Jesus. Though she will be deeply missed, her love, her strength, and the memories she gave us will live on in our hearts forever.