Rosalina Dayao Samonte

March 19, 1942 – August 20, 2026

Rosalina Dayao Samonte, a beloved daughter, sister, mother, auntie, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 20, 2026, in Virginia Beach, Virginia, at the age of 84. True to her vibrant spirit, Rosalina departed this world while engaged in her absolute favorite pastime—playing a lively game of Mahjong. She lived her life to the absolute fullest, surrounded by the laughter, warmth, and adoration of her family and friends.

A Journey of Love and Courage

Rosalina was born on March 19, 1942, in the beautiful Laguna Province of the Philippines, to her loving parents, Rodrigo Dayao and Josefina Amador Dayao. It was in the Philippines that she met and married the love of her life, Ramon Samonte Jr. Together, bound by love and a shared dream of a brighter future, Rosalina and Ramon made the courageous decision to leave their homeland. They immigrated to the United States to raise their family and seek a better way of life. Through hard work, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion, they didn't just find that better life—they succeeded beyond measure, building a beautiful and lasting foundation for generations to come.

Devotion to Family and Country

As a dedicated spouse of a U.S. Navy serviceman, Rosalina embraced the military life with grace and resilience. She proudly stood alongside Ramon, traveling the world and turning every new duty station into a warm and welcoming home for her active-duty family. During her employment years, she was a familiar and friendly face at the Navy Exchange, where she worked with pride and dedication.

Rosalina was a devout Roman Catholic whose faith was the cornerstone of her daily life. Her generous heart shone brightest when she was surrounded by family and friends, particularly when she was hosting. An extraordinary cook of traditional Filipino cuisine, Rosalina found immense joy in feeding others. To sit at Rosalina's table was to experience her love firsthand; no one ever left her home hungry, and her kitchen was always filled with warmth, delicious aromas, and joyful conversation.

A Legacy of Love

Above all else, Rosalina was proud of her family. She was exceptionally happy, generous, and proud to have and to hold all her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her legacy of love, strength, and joy will continue to live on in them.

Rosalina is reunited in heaven with her beloved husband, Ramon Samonte Jr.; her parents, Rodrigo and Josefina Dayao; and her cherished grandson, Nicolas.

Her loving memory will be forever treasured by her surviving family:

Her Children:

Son, Ferdinand Samonte, and his wife, Tammy.

Daughter, Rizalina Reyes, and her husband, Ray.

Her Grandchildren: Samson, Rosalyn & Anthony, Nelson Jr & Taylor, Jeremy and Joshua.

Her Great-Grandchildren: Adrianna, Nelson and Leilyanna.

Her Sister: Remedios Ruiz, and her husband, Ambet, along with her nieces Ruth Lara and Rosalee, and their families.

Rosalina lived a life filled with purpose, laughter, and an abundance of love. While we will all truly miss her presence, her bright spirit, and the joy she brought to our lives, we take comfort in knowing she is at peace, holding hands once again with her husband in eternity. Her loving legacy will forever guide and inspire her children and descendants.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7

Please join the family for a reception dinner at Crazy Buffet & Grill immediately following the service. 1745 Parkview Drive, Chesapeake, VA.