Estrellita “Estrel” Teopaco Luna

Estrellita “Estrel” Teopaco Luna (formerly Estrellita Manuel Teopaco) was born on October 8, 1941, as the eldest daughter of ten children to Filemon Macaspac Teopaco and Irene De Guzman Manuel. Estrel always kept God close to her heart, no matter the hardships she faced. She worked hard to put herself through school, paying her way as a seamstress, while also supporting her family and younger siblings.

Estrel earned a degree in Mathematics from Far Eastern University in the Philippines. She later obtained a Bachelor of Science in Education while working at Guagua National College (GNC) in Pampanga, Philippines, where she was one of the youngest teachers in their staff. In search of better opportunities to support her family, she pursued immigration to the United States. Although initially denied a working visa by the U.S. Consulate, her life took a turn when she met a young Navy seaman, Juan Soriano Luna, on a bus ride returning home. After a respectful and heartfelt courtship, Estrel married Juan on December 23, 1968.

With the support of the U.S. Navy, the couple eventually moved to the United States, making San Diego, California, their home in 1971—and never left since.

Estrel was a devoted mother to three children: Joel, James, and Jane. Faith, education, and family were always at the center of her values, and ensured her children were raised with those same principles. She was continually active in her church and deeply passionate about gardening. Her green thumb was known by many, especially her love for orchids—her "other kids," as she called them.

After 34 years in the U.S., Estrel welcomed her first grandson, Joel Ryen—named after her late son—on October 12, 2006. Soon, joined five more grandchildren: Roderick, Jenevieve, Jarred Juan, Emma Loren, and Kiana Felis. Estrel cherished every moment with them, often taking them to the lake, going shopping, and playing at the park.

In 2022, Estrel was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer and underwent treatment. After bravely battling cancer for two years, she passed away peacefully at the age of 83 on April 16, 2025, at her home in Rancho Bernardo, San Diego, California.

She is survived by her son, James T. Luna, and his wife Lorraine; her daughter, Jane L. Angeles, and her husband Reginald; and her six beloved grandchildren: Joel Ryen L. Angeles, Roderick L. Angeles, Jenevieve L. Angeles, Jarred Juan B. Luna, Emma Loren B. Luna, and Kiana Felis B. Luna.

A visitation for Estrellita will be held Sunday, April 27, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at El Camino Memorial Chapel, 5600 Carroll Canyon Road, San Diego, CA 92121. A funeral service will occur Monday, April 28, 2025 at 11:00 AM, 5600 Carroll Canyon Road, San Diego, CA 92121. A graveside service will occur Monday, April 28, 2025 at 12:00 PM at El Camino Memorial Park, 5600 Carroll Canyon Road, San Diego, CA 92121.