Merced graduated from Castle Park High School. She married the love of her life, Robert (Bob) Simas on July 6, 1974. They were blessed with a 44 year marriage and two children; Jessica Joanne and Robert Francis Simas II.
Merced had a long career working in the medical field as a Customer Service Representative for Scripps. However, Merced was first and foremost a wife and mother to her family, always putting their needs first. She enjoyed making their favorite dishes (lumpia) and spending quality time with them. Once the grandchildren arrived, they became her focal point. A proud grandmother, she would share her bragging rights with all who crossed her path. She was always in attendance at their basketball games, readily cheering them on. On occasion, when all was quiet, (and no activities involving the grandkids were on the horizon) Merced would sneak off to the casino with Bob, B.J. or Fatima. Merced will be greatly missed by family, friends and her furry favorite, Juice the Chihuahua. She will be remembered for her love of family and caring nature.
Merced is survived by her husband, Bob Simas, daughter, Jessica Joanne Simas-Puaina, (Ave Puaina), her son, Robert Francis Simas, grandchildren; Tariq S. Tillman, Alec E. Simas and Tauttinei S. Puaina.
In addition, survivors include her siblings; Nonita Regala and Fatima Briones. Predeceased siblings are Aida Lorio and Tito Ricote.
A visitation for Merced will be held Tuesday, July 17, 2018 from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at Funeraria del Angel Chula Vista, 753 Broadway, Chula Vista, CA 91910. A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, July 18, 2018 from 10:00 a.m. at St. Michael Catholic Church, 2643 Homedale, San Diego, CA 92139. Following the mass, a funeral procession will take Merced to her eternal resting place, Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery, 4470 Hilltop Dr, San Diego, CA 92135.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.humphreymortuary.com for the Simas family.
