Rosita Roy Papas

Rosita was raised in a large white-painted home in the province alongside her siblings. Her older brother, Jose Roy, who served as a congressman and later as a senator, helped provide for the family and supported the education of his siblings. The Roy household was known for its generosity, often welcoming those less fortunate to share a meal. As a young girl, Rosita would play with children who lived near the railroad tracks and fondly recalled how, despite having very little, they carried great happiness. Those early experiences shaped her lifelong compassion and gratitude.

Faith was central to her upbringing. Her family was deeply involved in the Catholic Church, and she remained devoted throughout her life. As a young girl, she was chosen to crown the Blessed Virgin Mary, an honor she described as a glorious and meaningful experience.

Rosita attended the University of Santo Tomas in Manila, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. During her studies, she boarded with nuns, an experience that further strengthened her discipline and faith.

In 1965, she immigrated to the United States and devoted her career to nursing. She worked as a Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU) nurse at UCSD Medical Center, where she was known for her unwavering willingness to help others. Colleagues remembered her as cheerful, elegant, and deeply compassionate, and she was respected by staff and physicians alike for the calm and care she brought to even the most difficult situations.

She met her first husband, Genaro Lazaro, who was serving in the U.S. Navy. Together they embraced the life of a military family, moving throughout the country during his service. She fondly recalled how much they enjoyed dancing together. During their marriage, they welcomed three children, who became the center of her life.

While working as a nurse at Mission Bay Hospital, she met her second husband, Francisco Papas, who was under her care at the time. Their connection grew over time, and they eventually married, building a life together that remained strong and devoted until his passing in 2016. She would later describe their marriage as a nice, quiet life shared in love and companionship.

Everything she did was with a smile. She enjoyed attending Mass, spending time with family, and caring for her pets.

Rosita was preceded in death by her husband, Francisco Papas. She is survived by her sister, Marina Manangan; her children, Sharon Brown (Oliver Brown), Gene Lazaro (Andrea Lazaro), and Brian Lazaro; and her grandchildren, Joshua Lazaro, Danielle Lazaro, Kai Santorelli, and Niko Lopez.

A visitation will be held at El Camino Memorial Chapel, located at 5600 Carroll Canyon Road, San Diego, CA 92121, on February 25, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

The funeral service will take place at the same venue on February 26, 2026, starting at 10:00 am. The service will be available via live stream at the following URL: [https://www.viewlogies.net/el-camino-memorial/LVxd5PCqt?pin=239871" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://www.viewlogies.net/el-camino-memorial/LVxd5PCqt?pin=239871](https://www.viewlogies.net/el-camino-memorial/LVxd5PCqt?pin=239871).

Following the funeral service, a committal service will be held at El Camino Memorial Park, also located at 5600 Carroll Canyon Road, San Diego, CA 92121, on February 26, 2026, at 11:00 am.