Romulo Gaviola Jereza

Romulo Gaviola Jereza, age 73, from the city of Bamban Tarlac, Province of Pampanga, Philippines, was called to rest on the morning of Wednesday, September 18, 2024 in San Diego, CA. "Romy" or "Papa Romy," as he was known to his friends and family, was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother-in-faith, and friend to all.

Romy is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Elenita Jereza; his children and their spouses Chris and Joanne Jereza, Jeanette and Alfred Pangilinan, and Anthony Jereza; and his grandchildren Emery Grace, Christopher Evan, Jr., Everly Reese, Chase Alexander, Emersyn Rae, Julianne Aila, and Jenevieve Olivia.

He served 20 years with pride in the United States Navy as an Electrician's Mate and then retired to work as a civilian maintenance electrician at various military bases in San Diego for NAVFAC. Throughout his career he had many adventures overseas and on shore. He was well respected for his dedication, gung-ho attitude, and tireless work ethic. As a husband and father, he raised and took care of his family with love and care that can't be replaced. To those who knew him as a friend or acquaintance, if anyone asked him for help, he would do so without hesitation because that was the kind of person he was.

Romy enjoyed fixing things, playing chess, bowling, hunting, fishing, crabbing, gardening, harvesting from his fruit trees, baking bread, and collecting items to name a few of his hobbies. Throughout his naval career he would bring back souvenirs or save coins from all of the different countries his ship visited during deployment.

He was a proud member of the Church of Christ or Iglesia Ni Cristo. Before he married, he was a choir member in the Local Congregation of Virginia. When he married, he became a deacon, and then an area leader. He enjoyed being one of the caretakers of the brethren under his care and would always help them out whenever they asked for anything. At the chapel or place of worship, he loved to help with repairing, installing, and maintaining it.

Lastly, he truly cherished spending time with his family, whether that was going to new places, or having a meal together for any occasion, big or small. He especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. You could see him feeding them or helping them pick fruit from his plentiful fruit trees.

He is resting now and at peace from a life filled with joy and happiness. His memories and legacy will live on through his surviving family and through the lives of those he's touched. He will be missed, but never forgotten. We will see him again soon in the Holy City, waiting for us to join him.

A visitation for Romulo will be held Thursday, October 3, 2024 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at El Camino Memorial Chapel, 5600 Carroll Canyon Road, San Diego, CA 92121. A visitation will occur Friday, October 4, 2024 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, 5600 Carroll Canyon Road, San Diego, CA 92121. A funeral service will occur Saturday, October 5, 2024 at 2:00 PM, 5600 Carroll Canyon Road, San Diego, CA 92121. A graveside service will occur Saturday, October 5, 2024 at 3:00 PM at El Camino Memorial Park, 5600 Carroll Canyon Road, San Diego, CA 92121.