Emelia Quiroga Fabila (“Mely”) passed away peacefully on Monday, August 24, 2026, at the age of 88. She was born on January 8, 1938, in Ilocos Sur, Philippines to the late Cirilo and Esperanza Quiroga.
Emelia retired from the Portsmouth Naval hospital with a nursing career that spanned over 40 years. In the early years she worked as a compassionate neonatal nurse caring for premature newborns and at the latter portion of her career as a specialized infusion nurse. Along the way she also trained many nurses at Children’s Hospital of King's Daughter and at Portsmouth Naval Hospital.
She was predeceased by her parents (Cirilo and Esperanza Quiroga), her loving husband of 52 years, George, and her only brother, Erdolfo. Left to cherish her memory are sons George Allan and Edwin (wife Veronica); and granddaughter Evangeline; and extended family that included many beloved nephews, nieces and close friends. Emelia was a member of Philippine Nurses Association, Ladies Auxiliary for the Knights of Columbus, Philippine Cultural Center, and Ilocano Association.
Emelia loved ballroom dancing, travelling with family and close friends and babysitting her granddaughter , Evangeline.
The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the caregivers, especially Mrs. Maria Mercado, as well as the many visitors who brought comfort, support, and love to our dear Emelia.
The visitation will be at Woodlawn Funeral home (6329 E. Virginia Beach Blvd., Norfolk, VA 23502) on Tuesday, September 8th from 5pm – 8pm.
A funeral Mass celebrating Emelia’s life will be held on Wednesday, September 9th at 11am at St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church (5343 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach, VA) at 11am.
