Exuperio Tanong Rios

Beloved husband of 56 years to Florencia, and devoted father to Jorge (Buena Fe), Simon (Grace), and Ani (Edi). Cherished brother to Marcosa, and a much-loved grandfather to Christine Faith, Jan Trisha, Oona Johannah (Serge), Jahidi James, and Sigron Nino, as well as great-grandfather to Savannah Hope. He will be greatly missed by his nephew Gerardo (Mary Chris), his niece Maria Ana (Rio), and his grand-nephews and nieces Marc Gerard, Ariestwosep, Rhiann, and Mitzi Thea, all of whom respected and cared for him deeply. Exur was predeceased by his sisters, Leonidas and Juana, and by his youngest son, Lex Josian.

Born on September 22, 1946, to parents Damian and Andrea, Exur is now reunited with them in heaven. He will be remembered for his selfless sacrifices, resilience, and love for his family. Tatay Exur, as we lovingly called him, was genuinely funny and easy to be around. He loved watching history shows, documentaries, and action TV series. He enjoyed British singers, playing chess on his phone, solving puzzles, reading the books of his only daughter, and simply spending time with his family. He loved talking with people of all ages, from toddlers to seniors, and had a gift for making genuine connections wherever he went. Endlessly curious about new technologies and always seeking knowledge, he was eager to learn something new.

A dedicated public servant for four decades, Tatay Exur served his community with devotion. Over the years, he held many positions, from being appointed Barangay Secretary at age 39 with no honorarium at the time, to Barangay Councilor, Barangay Captain, and later President of the Tiptip Senior Citizens Association. In every position, he showed patience, compassion, and commitment to the people around him. He also served as an advocate officer of the Knights of Columbus and remained a trusted member of the Barangay Justice and Conciliation Committee, even while facing illness.

Outside of public service, Tatay Exur was a skilled sculptor, painter, and artist. He started learning carving at the age of 23 to support his young family, teaching himself through hard work and determination. Over the years, he carved and molded statues and religious figures from wood or cement, with some pieces as tall as 30 feet, displayed in churches, homes, and public spaces across the Philippines. He also designed and made the clothing for wooden sculptures, shaping the garments himself. He also painted large backdrops for church interiors and carved grave markers. His talent, dedication, and creativity were recognized when he was featured as a local artist in the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Cultural Mapping project, highlighting his lasting contribution to Bohol’s cultural heritage.

Despite all his accomplishments, he remained humble and deeply rooted in faith. He cherished every moment spent with his family, and his humor, warmth, and curiosity made him a joy to be around. Most of all, he deeply loved and respected his loving and patient wife, Florencia. Their marriage was a strong and steady partnership built on loyalty and deep respect. They were inseparable throughout their lives, serving as godparents to over 60 couples at their weddings and facing life’s joys and challenges side by side. His devotion to her was one of the truest reflections of who he was, and their bond remains a lasting example of love that endures.

The family would like to thank the compassionate medical team at Juravinski Hospital for their care and support during his final days.

Family and friends are invited to the visitation and viewing at the Rios residence in Tiptip District, Tagbilaran City, Bohol, with the last night vigil to be held at the Tiptip Barangay Hall in honor of his years of service as a barangay official. The funeral service will be celebrated at San Roque Parish in Tiptip, followed by interment at Serenity Park–Tagbilaran, with dates to be confirmed.

Forever loved, forever remembered.

Exur’s life of service, sacrifice, and strength will continue to inspire all who knew him.