Purita Pura Fortes Nazaire

Purita was born on April 15, 1944 in Manila, Philippines to Juan O. Fortes and Feliza F. Fortes (nee Fontanilla). She was the 7th of eight children. She received her degree in Education from the University of the East (Manila, Philippines) in 1964 and was a successful as well as an effective Professor for over 20 years. Purita taught High School students both in Araullo High School and Philippine College of Commerce Laboratory High School (PCCLHS). In the early 80s, she moved on to teaching college-level students at Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP). Her teachings were focused on the study of the Tagalog language and the works of Philippines’ National Hero, Jose Rizal.

Purita was a very strong and courageous woman. As a single parent, she strived hard to provide for her three children. In 1988, she brought her family with her to the United States of America for a chance of a better future. In this foreign country she dedicated the rest of her life in serving the Lord and taking care of her children and grandson.

Purita was passionate about music. To respect her parent’s wishes, she sacrificed her desire to study piano for a career in Education. A lot of times you will catch her at home playing her beloved piano for hours. She shared her love of music through her service to the Lord as a Choir Director in the Music Ministry of her churches; Living Word Christian Fellowship (LWCF), Filipino Christian Church (FCC), Light of the World Christian Center (LWCC) and Good Shepherd Community Church (GSCC).

Purita will be especially remembered for her great love for Jesus Christ, her unconditional love for her children and grandson, her wonderful smile, her witty sense of humor, her infectious charm, her empathic ears and of course, her exceptional cooking.

Purita is survived by her three children Eileen (and Ted) Gutierrez, Rowena Amador and Jeffrey Nazaire; grandson, Jorryn Matthew Amador; and her siblings Cornelio Fortes, Perla Monis, Rudy Fortes and Cesar Fortes. She is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and many, many friends.

Purita, in addition to her parents, was preceded in death by two sisters, Suzie and Norma as well as brother Romeo.

Purita was a dedicated mother, grandmother, sister, teacher, friend and servant of the Lord. She will be greatly missed, but she will forever remain in the hearts of family and friends.

Note: The family request the guests to please wear white clothing during viewing and service. Thank You.