Anita Briones Coloma

Anita Briones Coloma, 86, of North Las Vegas, passed away peacefully on November 26, 2025, at Nellis Air Force Base, surrounded by the people she loved most. Her final moments were filled with the same warmth, grace, and gentleness she shared throughout her life.

Born on July 20, 1939, in Victoria, Tarlac, Philippines, Anita was the 5th of eight children of Patricio Briones and Concordia Rigor. From a young age, she carried a deep love for learning and a quiet determination to build a meaningful life. She attended Santa Barbara Elementary and Victoria High School, then continued her education at Central Escolar University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry.

In 1962, Anita bravely made the journey to the United States—becoming the first of her family to do so. She trained as a Medical Technologist at the University of Georgia in Athens, beginning a long and dedicated career. For over 37 years, Anita served as a Clinical Laboratory Technologist at Georgetown University Hospital, where she was honored many times as Laboratory Technologist of the Year. Her colleagues remember her not only for her excellence

and precision, but for her kindness, humility, and ever-present smile.

On October 6, 1964, in Heidelberg, Germany, Anita married the love of her life, Epifanio Castillo Coloma. Together they built a beautiful partnership rooted in devotion, patience, laughter, and adventure. While Epifanio served in the U.S. Army, the two traveled throughout

Europe, creating memories that would become some of Anita’s most cherished stories. In December 1966, their greatest joy arrived—their daughter Carol, who became the center of Anita’s world.

Anita embraced life with sincerity and joy. She loved ballroom dancing and found a second family through Dance World. She helped establish the Ilocano Society of America in Washington, D.C., proudly celebrating her heritage and supporting her community. Her faith guided her throughout her life, and she was a devoted parishioner at Holy Family Catholic Church in Virginia, St. John the Apostle in Leesburg, and St. John Neumann in Las Vegas.

But Anita’s greatest legacy is the love she gave to her family. She was a gentle, steady presence—someone who listened deeply, encouraged quietly, and cared wholeheartedly. She found immeasurable joy in her grandchildren, Jordan and Michael Ramirez, who adored their “Oma” and will forever hold her lessons and laughter close to their hearts.

Anita is preceded in death by her parents, Patricio and Concordia; her brothers Emeterio, Ernesto, Patricio Jr., Juanito, Regino, and sister Zenaida. She is survived by her devoted husband of 61 years, Epifanio; her daughter Carol and son-in-law Jectofer; her sister Eden Briones Zuno; and her beloved grandchildren, Jordan and Michael.

Visitation will be held on December 8, 2025, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Palm Mortuary – Northwest (6701 North Jones Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89131).

Funeral services will follow from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm, with Father Dave Casaleggio officiating.

Anita’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who have traveled, called, prayed, and shown support during this time. Your love honors her memory and brings comfort to her family.

Her legacy of love, service, and generosity lives on in everyone she touched.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the American Heart Association, a cause Anita cared deeply about.