Laura Ann Tamayo

Laura Ann Tamayo passed away peacefully surrounded by her family at the age of 68 on October 30, 2025, in San Diego, California. Laura was the loving wife and partner of Geoff Chase, devoted mother of Joshua Tamayo Bonwit, sister to Rudy, Estrella (Brown), Carmella (Durbin), Andrew, and Joni, cousin and auntie to many cherished family members and a dear friend to many others. Laura was also loved by Geoff’s children, Beth and John, and grandchildren, Maddie and Alex. She leaves a legacy of kindness, joy, strength, humor and a zest for life that inspires all who knew her.

Born on July 30, 1957 in Honolulu, Hawaii, Laura was the daughter of Rudolph and Crispina (nee Moranion) Tamayo. Laura was raised in her beloved family home in Hawaii alongside her five siblings with whom she shared a close lifelong bond of love and laughter while creating fond and lasting memories throughout life’s journeys. After studying at the University of Hawaii and earning a bachelor’s degree and a graduate degree in public health, Laura lived and worked in several areas, including Hawaii, California, and Rhode Island, before settling in San Diego in the community of Tierrasanta where her son Joshua was born to her and his father William (Bill) Bonwit.

Laura’s career in public health included working for San Diego County in the Office of Disaster Preparedness and the Hazardous Materials Management. Laura later joined Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) as a proposal manager, where she utilized her expertise in project management, writing, and interpersonal communication to oversee the process of development and submission of contract proposals to provide technical services for government and commercial clients. Over the years in her career, Laura made lasting contributions to her community and country while gaining the respect of, and making meaningful professional connections with, her colleagues, many of whom became dear friends.

Family was foremost in Laura’s life. She found much joy and fulfillment in time spent with her husband and with her son Joshua. She also thrived on gatherings with her large yet close-knit extended Tamayo-Moranion family including her parents, siblings, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins near and far. Although her relatives are many, Laura’s love was equally expansive and she had the ability to reach each family member through a loving and special bond. Laura lived life to its fullest, open to any and all new experiences and connections, including enjoying worldwide travels and adventures with her husband

Geoff to Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Southeast Asia, the Caribbean and Micronesia and many visits to the Hawaiian Islands that replenished her soul.

Laura was caring, compassionate, nurturing, and uplifting to all whose lives she touched. She was famous for her quick wit, intellect and insuppressible humor. Laura will be deeply missed, but remembering her will forever bring a heartfelt smile and joy to the faces of all who knew her. Laura’s light will continue to shine in the lives of all who loved her.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the American Cancer Society in honor of Laura's commitment to making the world a better place.