Alejandra de Leon Bongat

Alejandra de Leon Bongat was born on May 25, 1949, and was one of eight siblings in a close-knit family. She attended the University of the Philippines, where she earned her diploma in Political Science. In the years that followed, she met her husband, Orlando B. Bongat, and together they began building a family rooted in love, sacrifice, and perseverance.

In pursuit of greater opportunity, Alejandra and Orlando immigrated to the United States when their children were very young. Arriving with only a few personal belongings and a few hundred dollars, they first settled in New Jersey before making their permanent home in Houston, Texas. Both parents worked two jobs while their children were in elementary school to provide a better life. Despite the demanding hours, Alejandra remained deeply engaged in her children’s lives, always making time to check their homework and encourage their personal growth.

Her dedication and example taught her children the importance of prioritizing family, embracing sacrifice, and living with integrity and discipline. She led by action, instilling in them the value of hard work and resilience.

Alejandra began her career at the United States Postal Service as a mail clerk. Determined to advance, she spent countless hours studying for each exam and eventually earned a position as a supervisor, overseeing numerous team members. She was well-known for her fiery spirit and strong presence in the workplace. Through the Postal Service, she formed many lifelong friendships, including one with her dear friend Grace Mineses.

After retiring, Alejandra enjoyed life to the fullest. She traveled with her siblings and her best friend from college, Marion Samson; played Mah-Jong with Tita Beth, Tito Will, and Manny;, gardened with her famously green thumb; and stayed connected with friends and family. She could grow vegetables of impressive size and had a remarkable ability to revive even the most lifeless orchid, coaxing it to bloom again.

Though not known for her cooking, she was especially proud of her homemade pecan tarts—an annual Christmas tradition that she lovingly shared with her children. Above all, Alejandra’s greatest pride was her children. She taught them to read at an early age, encouraged them to aim high, and reminded them that intelligence and education were among the most valuable things a person could possess. She instilled strength, independence, and perseverance. Her children's accomplishments were her own, and she celebrated them with deep pride.

A lifelong learner, Alejandra had an insatiable curiosity. She practiced Spanish, studied real estate and the stock market, and loved following politics. She was also a deeply patriotic American who often reminded her children of the privilege and responsibility of living in the United States.

Alejandra was witty, spirited, and tenacious—never afraid to speak her mind. She lived life with passion and authenticity, fiercely protective of those she loved. Her presence was unforgettable, and she leaves behind a legacy of strength, love, and unwavering determination.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Orlando B. Bongat; her parents, Honorato and Jovita de Leon; and her sister, Angelita Pena.

Alejandra is survived by her daughter, Angela Bongat Seaman, her husband, Dr. Justin Seaman, and their son, Vincente Seaman; her son, Orlando E. Bongat, his wife, Chawalyn Bongat, and their children, Lauryn and Collin Bongat; her loving companion, Mariano Abella; and her siblings, Remedios Castro, Honorato de Leon, Dolores de Leon, Penafrancia Gabriel, Chito de Leon, and Marla Ortiz.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Alice’s care team, especially the liver transplant and LTAC unit at The Methodist Hospital TMC, and her devoted caregiver, Jonrick Semper, for their compassion and care.

A visitation for Alejandra will be held Thursday, May 22, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at The Settegast-Kopf Company at Sugar Creek, 15015 Southwest Fwy, Sugar Land, TX 77478. Funeral Mass will occur Saturday, May 24, 2025 from 11:00 AM at St Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, 1801 Sage Rd, Houston, TX 77056.