Sheila Gaitano Mendoza

Sheila Gaitano Mendoza, passed away peacefully on July 20th, 2026. Born on April 17th, 1975 in Quezon City, Philippines. She took the lessons she learned in the Philippines to the United States when her family moved to Las Vegas when she was 12. Several years later she met her husband, Nolan, whose large family embraced her as their own. She began her career at Macy’s, working her way up to store manager and finding lifelong friends along the way.

Her steely intellect was evident very early on. She taught herself how to read and mastered both Chinese and French in elementary and high school while also becoming conversational in Spanish. She dumbfounded teachers because she often figured out complex math and algebraic problems all by herself. Along with her IQ, she had an incredible ability to focus and lead others, as seen in her participation in the Air Force JROTC Color Guard, where she earned several medals and commendations.

Ferociously curious, and relentlessly adventurous, she happily brought others along on her explorations and hi-jinks. She was known for climbing the roof of her childhood home, with her little brother, to feed the stray cats with fish they ordered from the family restaurant. She made others feel loved and cherished through her fierce loyalty, sweetly curated gifts as well as kind & thoughtful gestures.

Sheila was a wellspring of laughter, wit and affection. She spent most of her days pouring her heart out into raising her child and acting as a cornerstone for her family. Avid creative she enjoyed spending her time writing, crafting and collecting art for her home. Always curious, she thrived on traveling, discovering new ideas, and connecting with people from all walks of life. Clever and compassionate, she was always ready to help anyone around her in need.

She was preceded in death by her parents Erlinda and Lucas Malasaga.

Sheila is survived by her husband Nolan; daughter Hallie and her husband Erick; and her siblings Julia, Jay and Emmanuel and his wife Sarah.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at Palm Mortuary - Northwest (6701 North Jones Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89131). A reception will follow from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm.