Estela Gumaru Celestino

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Estela (Thelma) Gumaru Celestino, of San Diego, California. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who departed this life peacefully surrounded by the love of her family on September 30, 2025, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Santo Tomas, Isabela, Philippines, Estela was predeceased by her parents, five brothers, and three sisters. In 1970, she immigrated to Canada and began her nursing career, where she met her beloved husband, Virgilio. Together, they built a life rooted in love, joy, and family. In 1990, she and her family relocated to Southern California, continuing their nursing careers and raising their children with strength and resilience.

Estela spent her life caring for others — with her hands, her heart, and her home. As a Registered Nurse, she brought comfort and healing to countless patients. Her dedication to service extended far beyond the hospital walls.

Estela is survived by her loving husband, Virgilio, with whom she shared 54 wonderful years of marriage. She was the proud mother of three children: Keri (Mikie), Kelly (Carlos), and Jun (Laura), and the deeply devoted grandmother to Melanie (Alex), Michael (Ashly), Matthew, Kiana, Kaiden, Kai, and Julian — each of whom was the greatest joy of her life. Her nurturing spirit and unwavering support were the foundation of her family’s strength.

One of Estela’s greatest joys was cooking. She loved making food for others — her most requested dishes were her lumpia and her pancit. She also found peace and purpose in her garden, where she nurtured life with the same care she gave to her family and patients. Orchids were her favorite flower — graceful, resilient, and quietly radiant — much like her.

Sundays were a cherished tradition, lovingly known as “Sunday Funday.” These family gatherings overflowed with her home-cooked meals, quality time, and joy. Her family will forever cherish those vibrant gatherings as some of their most meaningful memories.

Estela also cherished her yearly travels with Virgilio back home to the Philippines. These trips were special to her as they allowed her to reconnect with loved ones, revisit her roots, and contribute to her community. Her presence brought joy and comfort to those she visited, and she looked forward to this time each year.

Estela’s generosity extended beyond her home. Estela was a dedicated member of the Laoac Association, contributing to initiatives that uplifted underprivileged residents of Laoac. She helped coordinate events such as the Laoac Global Reunion held in Las Vegas, Nevada, which provided vital support to the underprivileged residents of Laoac. Her kindness and commitment to service touched countless lives.

Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the meals she prepared, the flowers she grew, and the love and compassion she gave so freely. A visitation will be held at El Camino Mortuary on October 18, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Memorial Service and Interment will follow on October 19 at 11:00 AM at El Camino Sorrento Valley and Memorial Park, 5600 Carroll Canyon Rd., San Diego, CA 92121.

Estela will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were blessed by her love and generosity.