Basilisa Ramirez Mendoza

Everyone’s life is the sum total of all of the people they have met, the things they have done, the places they have gone. Basilisa Escomiendo Ramirez Mendoza was no exception. She was a loved one, a friend, and someone special. To family and friends who knew her best, Basilisa will be remembered as a very exceptional person.

Basilisa’s life journey began on January 8, 1905. She first greeted the world in a village of Rosario, Pozorrubio, Pangasinan, Philippines. Her parents’ names were Augustina Escomiendo and Vicente Ramirez. She was raised with one sister, Leona Ramirez and in addition had several step-brothers and sisters from her father’s previous marriage. Basilisa and her family would go on to share many life experiences over the years.

Basilisa’s father owned most of a 1/3 tract of land consisting of central and southern Rosario. Her father donated the land where the school, Rosario Elementary was located. To the left of the school, the land is owned by Basilisa and all other surrounding land is also owned by other family relatives.

Falling in love is a huge milestone for any person. Basilisa married in 1928 at the age of 23. Empathic and loyal, Basilisa was committed to making her new family happy.

Basilisa was blessed with five children, Prescila, Eleuterio, Alfonso, Gloria and Joselito. Basilisa worked hard to be a good mother to her children and she did her best to fulfill their needs, raising her children in a positive and nurturing environment.

Later on, Basilisa was blessed with the gift of 21 grandchildren, 28 great- grandchildren, one great great- grandchild, not including one up and coming great-great-grandchild.

Basilisa migrated to the United States of America in 1981 and became a U.S. citizen 15 years later. She loved to dance, having lots of (senior) friends and in terms of faith was a devout Catholic.

Basilisa left us at 9:42pm on July 16, 2011 at the age of 106 years and 7 months due to old age. She passed away surrounded by all her children and immediate families who witnessed her last breath. Last rites were performed before and after death by Pastor Marlon Mendoza. She is the last to die among her generational relatives.

Services were handled by Glen Abbey Mortuary. A funeral service was held at The Little Chapel of the Roses in Bonita, California on July 23, 2011. Basilisa was laid to rest at Glen Abbey Memorial Park in Bonita, California.

Simply stated, Basilisa was a good and kind person, an individual who will for all time be remembered by her family and friends as someone who was a vital part of their lives. Basilisa leaves behind her a full legacy of lifelong friendships and many cherished memories. Everyone whose life Basilisa touched will always remember her with a smile.