Evelyn Delacruz Jayme

Early Life and Resilience

Evelyn was born on June 22, 1937, in Iloilo City, Philippines, to Salvador Delacruz and Rosa Tubongbanua. Her resilience emerged early. In April 1942 at the age of five, she witnessed the Japanese occupation of Iloilo City on Panay Island. She witnessed Japanese soldiers gathering Filipino men—including my grandfather and his sons—binding them together and holding them for hours in the heat at Plaza La Paz.

After years of bombing, warfare, and Japanese occupation, Iloilo City was among the Philippine cities most heavily damaged during the war. Filipino and American forces liberated it in March 1945. Through the fear, hardship, and upheaval, Evelyn developed the quiet courage and steadfast determination that defined her life. Those years taught her the lasting value of family, survival, and hope. Lessons she carried forward and passed on to future generations.

Family and Legacy

Evelyn was the heart of her home and family. She shared 49 years of marriage with Renato Jayme, who preceded her in death. She is survived by her children: Everen and his wife, Lani; Renalyn and her husband, Bill; Reneeve and his children, Kriz Joy, Christian, and Francez; Relyn, her husband, Renante and daughter, Lynrei. Evelyn loved her children unconditionally. In moments of triumph and through life’s hardest storms, she remained their steady anchor and guiding light.

A proud and doting grandmother to Bing, her husband Ben, Roxanne, her husband Billy, their children, Marissa, Jasmine, Mekenzie, William aka Turtle, and Eleanor; Kirstin, her husband Richard, their sons, Richie aka Chinno, and Dominic; Brandon, his wife Morgan, their daughter Livvy. Jasmeen, Jada, her husband Rashaad, their son, Jett Jett; JoJo, his wife Jazlin, their son, Asa. They will forever cherish her stories, her infectious laughter, and special traditions she beautifully created for them. She also leaves behind her nieces and nephew—Aileen, Alfredo (Junior), and Annalynn, her husband Pernell — who held a cherished place in her heart and brought her great joy.

Work and Community Service

For many years, Evelyn was a trusted presence at Agencia Zebra Pawnshop, where she worked with her dear colleagues and friends Febe, Lorna, Hilda, Aroon and the late Thelma. Their close bond was built on mutual respect, shared laughter, and exceptional service to the community.

Her dedication to service reached beyond her work. Deeply committed to her community, she proudly served as Treasurer for her La Paz district, supporting her neighbors and helping protect the district’s financial well-being and organization.

A New Chapter in America

In 2000, Evelyn began a proud new chapter, immigrating to the United States to reunite with her beloved daughter who was serving in the United States Army at Fort Huachuca, Arizona and her son-in-law, Bill.

As part of a devoted military family, she embraced each move and brought warmth, love, and stability to every home. She later joined them at duty stations in Fort Lewis, Washington; St. Louis, Missouri; and Fort Knox, Kentucky, creating treasured memories along the way.

Evelyn’s warmth extended beautiful bonds throughout her growing family. She held a deeply special place in her heart for Bill’s siblings, Tina and Scott, who brought her smile every single time they visited.

Connection, Joy, and Remembrance

In 2022, Evelyn moved to Blythewood, South Carolina, where she continued to build beautiful connections. She became a cherished regular at the Palmetto Oaks Adult Day Center. She enjoyed many joyful hours with friends, caring staff, and engaging in activities that brightened her days.

Evelyn was also a devoted fan of the television show Survivor. She never missed an episode, following each season with the same enthusiasm, grit, and passion as the players on screen.

In the spirit of her favorite game, Evelyn fought bravely and loved deeply. Her torch will remain forever lit in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

Rest in Peace

Evelyn’s life was a masterclass in grace, strength, and unconditional love. Though she has left our sight, the light she brought into this world will never fade.