Ismael Parrenas Jampayas

Ismael Parreñas Jampayas—known affectionately as “Mike”—was a man of quiet strength, deep faith, and generous love. He lived his life with humility and purpose, trusting fully in God’s plan and believing that every season of life, joyful or difficult, was guided by God’s hand. To his family, he was steady and devoted; to friends and community, he was kind, thoughtful, and always willing to serve.

Born on September 4, 1936, in Davao City, Philippines, Ismael showed early signs of leadership and academic excellence, graduating at the top of his class and serving as president of his high school student body. With dreams of becoming a physician, he began his studies at Silliman University and Far Eastern University before coming to the United States in 1961. When financial hardship required him to set aside medical school and place his family’s needs before his own, Ismael did so selflessly—trusting that God was leading him toward a greater purpose.

That trust led him to a lifelong calling in medical technology, healthcare, and education. He earned degrees in biology and microbiology from Long Island University and a Master of Public Health from Columbia University, while nearly completing a doctorate. Ismael served for more than 25 years at Columbia University–Harlem Hospital Center as a medical technologist, laboratory supervisor, and coordinator of the Clinical Pathology Internship Program. Earlier in his career, he also worked at St. Luke’s Hospital, Beth Israel, and Flatbush General Hospital. Teaching remained close to his heart, and he later shared his knowledge as an adjunct professor of microbiology at York College, New York Technical College, and Long Island University—continuing even after retirement.

In 1984, Ismael served as the first president and one of the founders of the Philippine Association of Medical Technologists (PAMET)–New York, helping to shape and guide the organization in its early years and strengthening the Filipino-American professional community. His leadership, dedication, and lifelong service were recognized with numerous honors, including a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2022, the honor of serving as Grand Marshal of the Philippine Independence Day celebration in Albany, NY in 2023, and Honorary Grand Marshal of the Philippine Independence Day celebration in New York City in 2025, proudly alongside his beloved wife, Josephine “Josie” Tupas Jampayas.

A man of deep Christian faith, Ismael believed that true success was measured not by titles, but by service. Despite facing hardship and discrimination, he chose to respond with grace, kindness, and generosity. He gave freely of his time and resources through organizations such as the SOP Medical Lions Club, Philippine Charities of America, the Knights of Rizal, Friends Indeed, Inc., and the Davaoeno Association, quietly living out his faith through action.

Above all else, Ismael treasured his family. In 1968, he married his late beloved wife, Leticia “Letty” Pangilinan, who sadly passed away in 2004. He later found love again and married Josie in 2015. He was a devoted father to his son James, a loving father-in-law to Cherry and a proud, joyful grandfather to Jaden and Ashten, who were among his greatest blessings and delights.

Ismael passed away on December 28, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, integrity, and love. While his absence is deeply felt, his life is one we celebrate with gratitude. He showed us how to walk humbly with God, how to serve others with compassion, and how to love steadfastly. We take comfort in the promise of eternal life and give thanks for a truly well lived life.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart

and lean not on your own understanding;

in all your ways submit to Him,

and He will make your paths straight.”

—Proverbs 3:5–6 (NIV)