Amelia Constantino Barrila

Born to Mary and Joseph Constantino, Amelia was the beloved eldest sibling to Frank. She often reminiscing about family picnics on summer days at Mission Bay and her childhood on Howard Street, filled with laughter and love of her family. She formed enduring friendships with her classmates from Rosary High School, graduating in 1957. A trailblazer, Amelia became the first in her family to achieve a college degree, earning her Bachelor’s in Art from San Diego State University in 1963. President John F. Kennedy delivered the commencement address at the Aztec Bowl, of which Amelia would tell us she was stood on her chair to see, there were 30,000 people in attendance.

Her professional journey spanned over four decades, during which she was a respected production manager in the advertising industry. For more than twenty years, she played a pivotal role at Phillips-Ramsay, the largest advertising agency in San Diego at the time, and worked on campaigns for clients like San Diego Zoo and WD40.

In the late 1960s, Amelia was introduced to William “Bill” Barrila by way of one for her sorority sisters, their relationship started in one, hours long phone call. He would capture her heart and they married in 1974. True partners in life, together, they brought a home in Ocean Beach, where they nurtured a loving family. Over their 41 years together, Amelia and Bill welcomed two daughters, Christina and Nicola, into the world. With unwavering support, Amelia encouraged her daughters to chase their dreams, instilling in them the importance of education, hard work, honesty, and a deep compassion for others.

An adventurous spirit at heart, Amelia embraced Bill's love for sailing, savoring the winds on the open sea and relishing sun-kissed summers on Catalina Island. She developed a profound love for art, music, and cinema. Often traveling to see art exhibits with her daughters, attending countless live concerts, going to San Diego Comic-Cons, and enjoying many magical trips to Disneyland. She also enjoyed watching football, especially the Pittsburgh Steelers.

With a heart as warm as the California sun, Amelia’s kindness and compassion touched the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know her. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bill, and is survived by her cherished daughters, Christina (Jeremy) and Nicola. She will be deeply missed; her memory lives on in the hearts of all who loved her. Amelia will find her final resting place beside Bill at Miramar National Cemetery.

A funeral mass for Amelia will be held Wednesday, June 11, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Sacred Heart Church - Ocean Beach, 4776 Saratoga Ave, San Diego, CA 92107. A graveside service will occur Friday, June 13, 2025 from 10:15 AM to 10:45 AM at Miramar National Cemetery, 5795 Nobel Dr, San Diego, CA 92122.