Anita Cumilang Gonong

Anita is survived by her devoted children Anthonette (Alan) Carregal, Anne Marie (Rob) Little, and Annette (Billy) Diamond; her beloved grandchildren Alec, Ariel (Jared), Arden, Adam, Andrew, Alexia, Alyse (Nate), and Aris; and her great-granddaughter Reese. She is preceded in death by her husband, Antonio Gonong of Lutz, Florida; her sister, Gloria Gonong of Los Angeles, California; and her parents and siblings in the Philippines.

Born on August 16, 1937, in Paoay, Ilocos Norte, Philippines, Anita was the daughter of Emilio and Estanisla Cumilang. In 1965, she married her sweetheart, Antonio, and together they began their life in California, where they welcomed their two eldest daughters. When Tony was later transferred to South Carolina, the family relocated and joyfully welcomed their youngest daughter. With Tony frequently away at sea serving in the U.S. Navy, Anita steadfastly raised their three daughters’ with strength, grace, and unwavering devotion. She instilled in them independence, a deep respect for education, and a lifelong love of music—teaching each of them to play the piano. Her children and grandchildren remember her as a gentle, loving, and supportive mother and grandmother who encouraged them to pursue happiness and follow their passions. She was truly the heart and soul of the family, and many others also looked to her as a mother figure, finding comfort, guidance, and strength in her presence.

Anita was exceptionally intelligent, graduating as valedictorian of her class. A gifted singer, she often shared her beautiful voice at gatherings and delighted in singing with her grandchildren, teaching them the timeless songs of the 1950s and 1960s. Her faith was a guiding force throughout her life; she drew comfort and strength from God and served her church community as a dedicated member of the Corpus Christi Altar Ladies.

Proud of her Filipino heritage, Anita passed down traditions through food, dance, customs, and celebrations. Her home was always filled with the aroma of her delicious Filipino dishes and desserts, lovingly prepared for family and friends. She was an active member of the Ilocano USA Association (IUSA) and the Philippine-American Association of Tampa (PAAT). Through IUSA’s efforts, she was crowned as Mrs. PhilFest 2011. She also served for many years on the PAAT Sunshine Committee, where her warm smile welcomed both longtime and new members. Anita was a Board Member of the Philippine Cultural Foundation, Inc. (PCFI) and contributed her time to the Sampaguita Ladies committee.

Gifted with a green thumb, Anita cultivated beauty wherever she went. Her love of nature blossomed in the gardens she tended at her home and in the homes of her children. She taught her family to find peace, strength, and comfort in the warmth of a loving home.

A Wake and Vigil will be held on Sunday, May 17, 2026, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. at Blount & Curry Funeral Home – Terrace Oaks Chapel, 12690 N 56th St, Temple Terrace, FL 33617. A Funeral Mass, officiated by Father Joel M. Kovanis, will take place on Monday, May 18, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, 9715 N 56th St, Temple Terrace, FL 33617. Interment will follow promptly at 1:00 p.m. at the Florida National Cemetery, 6502 SW 102nd Ave, Bushnell, FL 33513.

All are welcome to attend and celebrate Anita’s remarkable life. .

Condolences may be sent to the online guest book at https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/12871161