Louie Valencia Decena

The family will receive friends on Sunday, September 13th, from 3:00–5:00 p.m. with a rosary starting around 3:30 p.m. at Carolina Memorial Funeral Home & Gardens.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, September 14th in Goose Creek, with Father Rafael Padron of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church officiating. Burial will follow at Carolina Memorial Gardens in North Charleston. Arrangements are by Carolina Memorial Funeral Home and Gardens.

Louie met the love of his life in his hometown and married Fay Abo, on August 21, 1972. He proudly served in the United States Navy for 20 years, a career that took him to the Philippines, Hawaii, Alaska, and California before he made South Carolina his permanent home. After retiring from the Navy, he earned his bachelor’s degree and continued his service to the community through his work with the U.S. Postal Service.

Louie is preceded in death by his parents, Hipolito and Cecilia Decena, his brothers Louis Decena and Benjamin Decena, and a son Winne Louie Decena.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Fay; his children and their spouses, Karen Baker (Jim) and Louie Decena Jr. (Michelle); his grandchildren Sydney Charles, Elijah Decena, Ana Decena, and Olivia Decena; and his brother Juanito Decena (Lolita). He is also survived by many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Louie will be remembered for his warm smile, kindness, and unwavering loyalty. Food was his love language. He especially loved cooking for his family. He was always cracking jokes, asking “Did you eat?”, and giving generously through humor, meals, and companionship. When Louie walked into a room, he became an instant friend, warmhearted, smiling, and already talking about the next trip. Even in the most difficult moments of his illness, he looked forward to his next meal and dreamed of traveling back to the Philippines.

He was a wonderful dancer and a firm believer in the value of education. He worked hard to impress upon others the importance of finishing school and earning a degree. Louie helped countless family members get ahead in life, lifting people up with encouragement, support, and love. He lived the call to “love your neighbor” in every way. When he looked at you, he gave you his whole heart. You felt important, seen, and loved. He cared deeply for everyone, even those who struggled to return that love. His generosity, acceptance, and devotion to others were boundless.

Louie’s greatest joy was his family and serving those around him. His absence will be felt profoundly, and he will be deeply missed.