Abelardo Abellera Viray

Abelardo Abellera Viray, known lovingly as Abeling, Abel, Uncle Tex, and Tatay, passed away on June 12, 2026, at the age of 90. His story began in 1936 in Dinalupihan, Bataan, Philippines but his life’s journey quickly led him overseas to San Diego, the sunny coastline where he and his family would call home as the rest of his story unfolded.

When we think about the many chapters of Abelardo’s life, there is an essence of his character that connects them all: devotion.

Abelardo served diligently in the United States Navy for twenty years—a commitment that reflected his quiet strength and deep sense of duty. But his dedication to a greater purpose didn’t end at military retirement, as he was not one to sit still for long. He continued to serve his community in his career with San Diego County, where he eventually retired a second time, in 2001. As a proud Filipino-American immigrant and veteran, Abel achieved his American Dream with a meaningful career (or two!) that provided a steady life and a happy home for those he loved most.

Yolanda, his beloved wife, was at his side throughout all of life’s challenges and victories. Their lifelong marriage set the example of true love rooted in unwavering faith and steady support for each other through every season of life.

He was a dedicated Sailor. A committed husband. But his favorite role of all? Dad.

A devoted Dad to five daughters he cherished unconditionally. He taught his girls how to be strong, how to rise in the face of adversity, and how to always carry themselves with dignity. He celebrated their accomplishments, comforted them in their struggles, and cared for them selflessly. Although his girls were his true pride and joy, we must recognize this was no easy feat. Living in a house full of young women, especially while in their teenage years, is anything but dull. But Abel’s perseverance never faded, and by the grace of God, he made it to 90 years old with a full head of hair.

Anyone who knew Abeling knew he was a man of few words. But when he did speak, you wanted to listen, because what came out was either hilariously witty, unexpectedly sharp, or genuinely caring. He had a way of saying exactly the right thing at exactly the right moment, often leaving the room laughing or quietly moved. His generosity was legendary, the kind that showed up not in grand gestures but in constant, reliable ways that made everyone around him feel taken care of.

And then there were his passions. Abeling had a well-known affinity for the casino, particularly the slot machines at Sycuan and Viejas, and his loyalty to either establishment depended entirely on where he was winning at the time. He was an avid coin collector, a devoted fan of seafood buffets, and a man who never met a brownie, Hershey's bar, or Milky Way he didn't love. McDonald's held a special place in his heart, too. For a man with no teeth, and one who absolutely refused to wear his dentures, he was the ultimate foodie. That fact alone says everything you need to know about his wonderful, stubborn spirit.

Abelardo is survived by his beloved wife, Yolanda Miranda Viray; his daughters, Liza Viray, Jennifer Viray Martin, Glenda Viray, Elaine Viray, and Kimberly Viray; his son-in-law, James Sotto Martin; his grandchildren, James Martin Jr., Jovahn Martin, Janae Diaz, Justice Martin, Erica Martin, and Brianna Martin; as well as Noel Diaz; and his great-grandchildren, Kaya Martin, Elias Martin, Noel Oliver (Ollie) Diaz, and Elijah Diaz.

Visitation will be held on July 6, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Glen Abbey Memorial Park and Mortuary in Bonita, California. A Mass will be celebrated at St. Charles Catholic Church at 10:00 a.m., with the final resting place to follow immediately after at Glen Abbey. May he find the peace and rest he so richly earned, held gently in God's love.

On behalf of the Viray, Martin, and Diaz family, we thank you for celebrating and loving Abelardo as much as we do.