Nellie Mediana Ofrecio

August 20, 1946 - June 29, 2025

Nellie Mediana Ofrecio passed away in the comfort of her home in San Diego, California surrounded by her family at the age of 78 on June 29, 2025. After a nearly five year battle with cancer, it was time to take her rest and join loved ones who have gone before.

Nellie was born on August 20, 1946 in Rosales Pangasinan, Philippines to Nazario and Bienvenida Mediana and is one of seven children. She graduated from the University of Pangasinan with a Bachelor's of Science in Elementary Education. She married Manuel in 1969 and his enlistment in the United States Navy brought them to America. After being stationed in Point Mugu, Guam, and Great Lakes, Manuel's final duty station brought them to San Diego, California. Through it all, Nellie managed to work full time and raise three children, often on her own while Manuel was deployed. Though she worked various jobs, her role as mother and wife remained paramount.

Nellie came to the states not knowing how to cook rice. Through years of experimentation, she taught herself to make the delicious dishes that she is well known for. She enjoyed feeding her family and friends with meals, made in the special way that only she knew how. Sprinkled with a lot of love, she kept our stomachs full, hearts open, and souls enriched.

After retirement, she enjoyed raising and spending time with her grandchildren, keeping everyone well fed, spending quality time with loved ones, and going for the jackpot at the local casinos. She made many friends throughout her life, and loved hosting them for merienda in Nellie’s kitchen. Any time spent with family and friends, especially her ‘RBG Ungoys’ kept a smile in her heart.

She suffered silently so as to not cause any worry. Though she is gone, we take peace in knowing her battle is over and can rest in the kingdom of the Lord. Nellie stayed strong for so long and through it all, the well being of her family was first and foremost.

Nellie will be cherished and held in the hearts of her husband Manuel of 56 years; children Jeanette, Jachelle and Joel; grandchildren Jaden, Gannon, Ryland, Garren and Raeden; and great granddaughter River. She is remembered for her kind, loving heart, and generous spirit.

Thank you to the many doctors, nurses and friends who gave her hope and kept her spirits up throughout her fight. Though Nellie’s physical presence may no longer grace our lives, her spirit will continue to inspire and uplift us. May her memory be a blessing and may we carry forth her legacy of love in all that we do.

To celebrate the life of Nellie, the family will receive friends on Wednesday, July 16th from 4:00-8:00pm at El Cajon Mortuary. Memorial service will be held on Thursday, July 17th at 10:00am at El Cajon Mortuary followed by committal at 1:15pm at the Miramar National Cemetery.