Imelda Yabut Gopez

She was born on October 21, 1947, in the Philippines to Angelina and Pedro Yabut. She grew up with a strong sense of family, faith, and dedication that would guide her throughout her life. She was also deeply connected to her siblings, Carmencita Ong, Joven Yabut, and Alfredo Yabut, with whom she shared lifelong bonds of love and support.

She married the love of her life, Enrique Gopez, on May 9, 1971. Together they built a life rooted in love, resilience, and devotion to their family.

She earned a Bachelor of Science in Education in the Philippines and began her career as an elementary school teacher, touching the lives of many young students with her kindness and passion for learning. In 1997, she moved to the United States, where she continued to work hard for her family. She was employed at Mandalay Bay until her retirement in 2020.

She is survived by her loving children: Ellen Gopez-Smith, Enrique Gopez Jr., and Emerson Gopez; her beloved son-in-law, Brad; and her cherished daughters-in-law, Hersey and Anne. She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Lorenzo and Rafael, Isabella and Grant, and Zoe and Olivia, all of whom brought immense joy to her life.

She was a woman who found joy in life’s simplest and most meaningful moments. She loved cooking meals that brought everyone together, filling her home with warmth, laughter, and the comforting aroma of love. Dancing was one of her happiest expressions, a reflection of her vibrant spirit and the joy she carried within her.

Family was at the center of her world. She cherished every moment spent with her loved ones, whether at home or traveling together, creating memories that will be treasured forever. Her faith was a guiding light in her life—she was deeply religious, and her strength, kindness, and compassion reflected the depth of her beliefs.

She was a loving mother whose greatest gift was the way she brought her family closer together. She had a generous heart, always giving of herself without hesitation, making sure those around her were supported, comforted, and never alone.

As a grandmother, she was truly one of a kind—loving, generous, and endlessly devoted. She took great joy in spoiling her grandchildren, surrounding them with affection, laughter, and care. Her love was a constant presence, one that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

She will be remembered for her warmth, her faith, and the boundless love she gave so freely to her family.

She will be deeply missed forever as a loving mother, devoted grandmother, and a cherished friend to many. Her legacy of love and kindness will live on in all who were fortunate to know her.