Valeriana Arayata Mopia

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Valeriana Arayata Mopia, affectionately known as “Nanay,” on March 7, 2025. She was born on April 14, 1930, in Tanza, Cavite, Philippines and lived a life of immense strength, sacrifice, and love.

Nanay grew up during a time of war, facing hardships at a young age. As a teenager, she had to leave school to work in a factory and help support her family. Though she dreamed of becoming a teacher, her family’s financial struggles did not allow her to pursue an education. Despite this, she remained determined to provide a better life for her loved ones.

At the age of 21, Nanay married Tatay Victor, who won her family's favor by gifting a prized rooster. Their marriage lasted 57 beautiful years, built on hard work, resilience, and unwavering devotion to their children.

A woman of deep faith, Nanay ensured that her children grew up with strong spiritual values, taking them to church every Sunday and praying together as a family. She believed in discipline, instilling structure and responsibility with a strict 6 PM curfew for her children.

She was a strict yet deeply caring mother to her six children, always protective and determined to instill discipline and responsibility. She worked tirelessly to ensure her children had access to the education she could never have. She never rested, never took breaks, and never stopped giving her all for her family.

In 1979, Nanay immigrated to the United States, continuing her hardworking nature by working at Diacon and Family Loompya. Even after being urged to retire, she remained independent, refusing to be a burden to her children. She finally chose to retire when her granddaughter, Ainara, was born, dedicating herself to caring for the next generation.

Beyond her hard work and sacrifices, Nanay had a vibrant personality. She loved telling stories, always animated and passionate, capturing the attention of anyone who would listen. Her warmth extended beyond words—she always had a warm meal ready for anyone who visited. Sundays were special, as she made sure to prepare good food for her family, ensuring that despite financial struggles, there was always something to share.

Nanay was practical, economical, and selfless. She made sacrifices daily to ensure her family had what they needed. Whether it was slicing cheese extra thin so each child had an equal share, wrapping food in banana leaves, or creating a piggy bank out of bamboo to save for a house, she always found ways to provide.

Though not always outwardly expressive, her love was profound. Her greatest achievement in life was the family she nurtured—a legacy of strength, resilience, and success. She is survived by her six children Rodante (Sonia), Leilani (Kit), Rosana, Lorena (Edwin), Albert (Rosell), Anna

Liza (Allan), 11 grandchildren Dason (Noemie), Nolan (Shelley), John Micah, Kristalyn (Eric), Dennis (Bonny), Alyssa, Helene, Robert, Ainara (Ryan), Annika, Arden and 5 great-grandchildren Emielyn, Dayvin, Oscar, Oliver, and Talon, who will forever cherish her memory and honor her sacrifices.

Nanay’s life was a testament to faith, love, endurance, and devotion. She created a home filled with warmth, values, and dreams realized through the lives of those she raised. Her spirit will live on in all of us