Honorata Nora Espina de Leon

Born in Cebu, Philippines, Nora lived a life filled with kindness, creativity, faith, and an enduring passion for family, food, and discovery.

Nora’s greatest joy was her family. She deeply loved her husband, children, grandchildren, and extended family, including her beloved brothers, sisters, and in-laws. She had a generous heart that embraced everyone she met, treating coworkers, friends, and even acquaintances like family. Through her kindness, gentleness, and quiet strength, she won the hearts of all who worked with her, including her superiors and peers, who admired and respected her both personally and professionally.

Nora dedicated her professional career to the field of food research and development. She worked at California Manufacturing Company (CMC), where she rose through the ranks to become Director of Research and Development, a position she held until her retirement in 2000. She later continued her work with Fruitcrown Products Corporation, bringing her expertise and love for innovation to everything she did.

Nora’s appreciation for flavors extended beyond her work; she loved cooking, sharing meals with loved ones, and exploring new tastes. Her home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and the comforting aroma of her culinary creations. She also found joy in music, especially the timeless songs of James Taylor and Carole King.

Above all, Nora’s deep devotion to her Catholic faith was a guiding light throughout her life. She prayed daily and was rarely seen without her rosary close by. She taught her family the importance of prayer and trust in God, often reminding them to turn to Him in both joy and hardship. Her faith was steadfast, and she lovingly shared her devotion to God and the Saints, inspiring those around her to seek hope and strength through prayer.

Those who knew Nora will remember her gentle laughter, her thoughtful advice, and the way she made everyone feel at home. Whether hosting family gatherings, encouraging a coworker, or offering a quiet prayer for someone in need, she lived each day with gratitude, compassion, and grace.

Nora is lovingly survived by many, most especially her loved ones, friends, and family members who were close to her heart. And her spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew her, and in every prayer, meal, song, and memory shared in her name.

A wake will be held on October 24, 2025, followed by a Funeral Mass and Cremation Services on October 25, 2025. Family and friends are invited to join in honoring Nora’s life and celebrating the legacy she leaves behind—a legacy of love, faith, strength, and generosity.

“For He shall give His angels charge over you,

to you in all your ways.”

Psalm 91:11

Visitation will be held at Claude R. Boyd/Spencer Funeral Homes, located at 448 West Main Street, Babylon, NY, 11702, on October 24, 2025, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

A Funeral Mass will take place at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 455 Hunter Ave, West Islip, NY, 11795, on October 25, 2025, from 10:30 am to 11:30 am.

A Chapel Service at the Crematory will follow at Long Island Cremation Company, 91 Eads St, West Babylon, NY, 11704, on October 25, 2025, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Go Fund Me at the following URL: https://gofund.me/53c1dc71e.

For those who wish to attend Nora's services virtually, you can log onto https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/c25109180983506 on Friday, October 24, 2025, starting at 5:00 PM (EST) or anytime afterward to view the service.