Versalita G Rona

Versalita was born on June 19, 1951 to Gonzala and Bernardino Gilbuena in Sto. Nino, Philippines. She grew up in Nasipit, Augsan del Norte, where she lived a full, loving, family-filled upbringing as the oldest sister of three. In her childhood, being the only adorably curly-haired daughter, her mother who was a seamstress, adorned her with fancy dresses. As she got older, she wanted to spread her wings and follow her calling.

She went on to study at Southwestern University in Cebu, where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing. There, she met some of her dearest lifelong friends. In 1973, fresh out of college, she met the love of her life, Jun. Equipped with his guitar, black leather jacket, and charismatic voice, he took her breath away with love songs from the very first moment. “I knew he was the one,” she said, despite having known him for a very short period. Unbeknownst to them, a challenging, but beautiful chapter in her life would unfold. She married him and never looked back. Together, their career landed them to foreign places filled with new friendships and rich experiences.

Versalita dedicated her life to serving others wherever she went. Nursing was her passion. She cared deeply for the people around her. She was fearless and independent, yet sensitive and compassionate. It was these characteristics that allowed her to take on several roles as she grew in her professional career. She welcomed new challenges and provided excellent patient care. Her definition of travel nursing took her around the world.

While at the same time, she began her lifelong journey of faith together as husband and wife. They developed a deeper connection with those they met as they formed prayer groups, which only further strengthened their faith in God-the same faith they instilled in each one of their children and their grandchildren. Their calling led them to venture and pursue multiple pilgrimage together.

In her rare free time, she enjoyed several hobbies. One of many is dancing to nostalgic tunes with her husband in the living room. If she is not tending to her flower garden (Geranium being one of her favorites), she is either off traveling to see her friends and loved ones from afar or organizing photos from treasured moments in albums. Versalita enjoyed sharing stories of her past, whether it be from her childhood, college days, reunions with SWU classmates, memorable family events and family vacations. Her face would light up with smile as she relived the stories of her past repeatedly.

For all her success in life, her most fulfilling accomplishment was being a wife, mother, and proud “Mama” to her grandchildren. Family was everything for her. As a mother, she was strong, loving, caring, compassionate, and protective. Her happiest moments were ones surrounded by her grandchildren, which clearly were the light of her life.

She is known to many for having the biggest heart and a smile so stunning, it would light up the whole room. Not only was she fun-spirited, she exuded elegance and beauty. Versalita touched the lives of many people and she continues to be loved by her friends and family.

Versalita is survived and missed by her loving husband Ruperto “Jun” of 50 years, and her children, Jing, Anne, Janice and Michael. She will be forever cherished by his four grandchildren, Kaela, Pio, Keanna and Kaelyn. She will be missed. Never forgotten. Until we meet again.

A rosary and viewing will be held in her honor on Monday April 17, 2023 from 2pm-6pm at Miller-Woodlawn Funeral Home and Memorial Park (5505 Kitsap Way Bremerton, WA 98312). A rosary and viewing will occur Tuesday, April 18, 2023 from 10-11AM in St. Gabriel Roman Catholic Church (1150 Mitchell Ave SE, Port Orchard, WA 98367) followed by a Catholic Funeral Mass and Burial Services at Miller-Woodland Funeral Home and Memorial Park at 2pm – 3pm.

If you would like to send flowers please send them to Miller-Woodlawn Funeral Home and Memorial Park with a recommendation to use Port Orchard Florist LLC 1739 Village Lane SE. Port Orchard, WA.

Please share your memories with Mama and any messages you may have on the obituary wall. Thank you.