Virginia Sabado Ceralde, affectionately known to many as “Ms. Ginny” and “Virg” passed away on November 7, 2026, at the age of 70, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories and a legacy of unconditional love.
Born on December 15, 1955, in the Philippines, Virginia moved to the United States at the tender age of three and grew up in Salinas, California. Throughout her life, she called both Oceanside, California, and the Virginia Beach, Virginia, area home before returning to Southern California in 2022, where she settled in Fallbrook and spent her final years.
Virginia dedicated her professional career to public service with the U.S. Department of the Navy, where she retired as a Program Analyst. Her career reflected her dedication, strong work ethic, and commitment to service.
Known for her kind heart, gentle voice, infectious smile, and wonderful sense of humor, Virginia had a special way of making everyone around her feel welcomed and loved. She found her greatest joy in her family, especially her beloved grandchildren, whom she absolutely adored and showered with endless love and affection. Her loving nature extended to her cherished four-legged companion, Roxy, affectionately known as “Roxy Poxy,” who held a special place in her heart and brought her endless joy and companionship.
Ginny knew how to embrace life's simple pleasures. She especially loved visiting the casino and trying her luck at her favorite slot machines, a pastime that always brought her excitement and joy. In her later years, she embraced her adventurous spirit and love for travel, eager to experience as much of the world as possible. Whether traveling domestically or internationally, by train, cruise ship, airplane, or RV, she welcomed every opportunity to explore new places and create lasting memories.
A woman of Catholic faith, Virginia carried her beliefs close to her heart. Her faith remained a source of comfort and peace, particularly during her final days.
Above all, Virginia was the heart of her family, the glue that held everyone together. She was the one who brought loved ones around the table for holidays, birthdays, and family dinners, creating traditions and memories that will forever be treasured. To her children, she was a constant source of comfort, wisdom, and gentle guidance & to her grandchildren; she was a source of endless affection, encouragement, and unconditional love.
And no gathering with Ms. Ginny was complete without food! She delighted in making sure everyone was well fed, sharing a special love of good food with her grandsons, especially her oldest grandson, Quinton, who was affectionately her “foodie partner in crime.” Whether sharing a meal, celebrating a special occasion, or simply spending time together, Virginia had a gift for making ordinary moments feel extraordinary.
Virginia was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Henry D. Sabado and Trinidad C. Sabado and brother Richard C. Sabado.
She is survived by her loving husband, Reed Hartel; her daughter, Christina Ceralde; her son, Michael Ceralde; and her five cherished grandchildren, Quinton Harmon, Kayla Ceralde, Maria Lopez, Michael Ceralde Jr., and Gabriela Ceralde.
She is also survived by her beloved siblings, Henry Sabado Jr., Linda Sabado, Lina Sabado, and Susan Sabado Butler, along with her brother-in-law, Steve Butler.
Though Virginia’s physical presence will be deeply missed, her beautiful smile, gentle voice, laughter, and boundless love will remain forever in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known her.
Her greatest legacy will live on through the family she held so dearly and the love she instilled in each of them.
Forever loved, forever remembered, and forever our Mom, Grandma & Wife
