Dr. Flora Quiambao Almeda

Almeda, Flora Q. age 92, died peacefully on April 1, 2014. Flor or Smiley - as she liked to be called - was born June 22, 1921 in Manila, Philippines. She is survived by 7 daughters, 5 sons, 24 grandchildren and 27 great grandchildren. She is predeceased by her husband, parents, siblings, one son and one grandson.

Smiley began her career in the Philippines as an Elementary school teacher and later became Guidance Counselor at Ramon Magsaysay Elementary School.

She obtained her Masters and Doctorate Degree in Guidance Counseling. After her retirement, her love of teaching and value of education drew her back to work as a Guidance Counselor at Colegio de Sta Rosa, and then Professor at Ortanez University.

In 1943, Smiley married the love of her life the late Jesus Almeda. Together they raised 13 children emphasizing the value of family, religion and education.

In 1970, Smiley and her husband moved to the United States. When he became ill, she tirelessly took care of him for over 10 years. They were fortunate to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary before her husband died.

After Smiley’s husband passed away, she moved to Cathedral Plaza in downtown San Diego to be closer to church. She was very religious and active in church services in St. Joseph Cathedral as a Lay and Eucharistic Minister. Smiley always enjoyed being busy. She volunteered for Catholic Charities in their Foster Grandparent Program and San Diego Urban League.

She spent her last year in Lemon Grove Care and Rehabilitation Centre in Lemon Grove, California.

Visitation will be on Friday, April 11, 2014 from 5:00p.m. - 9p.m. at The Little Chapel of the Roses 3838 Bonita Road Bonita, California 91902.

Funeral service will be on Saturday April 12, 2014 at 2:00p.m. at St. Joseph Cathedral 1535 3rd Avenue San Diego California 92101. Internment will follow at Glenn Abbey Memorial Park 3838 Bonita Road, Bonita, California 91902.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to St. Joseph Cathedral 1535 3rd Avenue San Diego, California 92101.