Isabella Rae Gagante

Affectionately known as Bella or Inday to her family and friends, Isabella was born on February 27, 2012, in Modesto, California. In her 14 years, she brought immeasurable light, joy, and love to her mother and to everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. She had a gentle, content spirit and a heart full of gratitude.

Her mom lovingly called her “unicorn girl.” Isabella adored butterflies and anything purple or pink. There was never a dull moment with her—she had a way of brightening every room with her beautiful smile and her contagious giggle. It didn’t take much to make her happy. She loved being read to, listening to her favorite music, and watching her favorite shows. She especially enjoyed Bible stories and worship songs, Rock ‘N Learn Phonics, and Ms. Rachel, just to name a few. She enjoyed upbeat music and would tap her feet to music by BTS, Taylor Swift, and Black Pink.

Isabella was incredibly brave through countless hospital visits. She never complained nor threw tantrums, facing each challenge with quiet strength. She would calmly offer her arm for lab tests and treatments, showing a level of courage that inspired everyone who cared for her.

She shared many special adventures with her mom and stepdad, Teddy, traveling to places like Hawaii, Disneyland, Cabo San Lucas, Yosemite, Oregon, Lake Tahoe, and the Philippines. She was a true water baby and loved spending hours in the pool in Cabo, always under the careful watch of her devoted stepdad. During one memorable trip to Disneyland, she even experienced her very first sweet crush—she never took her eyes off a goodlooking young boy for the duration of the Jungle Cruise ride - a moment that brought so much joy and laughter to her family.

Isabella was deeply loved by many. At school, she had a special way of bringing people together—everyone enjoyed working with her and getting to know her. She’ll be remembered for her bright spirit, her signature cool shades, and the way she touched hearts so effortlessly. She brought smiles wherever she went.

Her pure and joyful spirit was truly something special. Isabella’s beautiful smile and radiant personality will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Isabella is survived by her loving mother, Janice Rojas; stepfather, Teddy Perales; grandfather, Napoleon Rojas; grandmother, Bernarda Rojas; aunts, Analou Rojas and Gladytine Rojas; uncle, Argie Rojas; and her father, Benji Gagante.

She was cherished by a lot of people including her aunt, Donna Dette Norona; her uncle, Wynn Norona; her teachers, Belinda Hodges, Michael Parisi, and Lana Sloan; her nurses, Tia Utke and Desiree Gentlemen; and her dear friend and paraeducator, Rosalba Glez Muñoz Chavez.

A viewing will be held on April 15, 2026, from 4pm to 9pm at Lakewood Memorial Park, 900 Santa Fe Ave., Hughson, CA. Her funeral service and Celebration of Life will take place on May 9, 2026, at 10:00 AM.