Merle Carmelo Nomorosa

Surrounded by her children, Merle Carmelo Nomorosa peacefully passed away on the morning of Thursday, May 14, 2026, at Queen of the Valley Hospital in West Covina, California. Though her passing came after an unexpected stroke, her strength and fighting spirit remained evident until the very end. Her family finds comfort in believing that she held on long enough to spend one final birthday with her youngest daughter, whom she lovingly named, and spent so much of her time with.

Born on November 16, 1940 , to Enrique B. Carmelo and Milagros Fresco , Merle navigated the challenges of her father's departure from the family and the loss of her mother at a relatively young age. She built a beautiful bond with her older sister, Yolanda Carmelo Nomorosa , whom she cherished dearly. Merle’s remarkable capacity for love, grace, and forgiveness was deeply evident throughout her life; as she maintained a loving relationship with his father and welcomed her other sisters, Lerma Silo and Gloria Carmelo. When her father remarried, Merle extended that same warmth to his wife, Remedios Roy, and the daughter they shared, Irene Carmelo, lovingly caring for her father alongside Remedios before his passing.

Merle married her late husband, Rolando “Roland” Nomorosa, at a relatively young age. In their early years together, she supported him in a traditional sense, raising their children while he built his career. However, as her youngest son, Alan - whom she always said took after Elvis due to her fixation on the singer during her pregnancy - grew older, Merle returned to the workforce. What began as a modest position quickly revealed her natural talent for sales and leadership. Through determination and hard work, she rose from the bottom ranks to become a top salesperson and eventually a sales manager overseeing multiple agents. Together with her husband, they achieved success and acquired properties of their own.

Yet despite their accomplishments in the Philippines, Merle and Roland made the difficult decision to leave everything behind and immigrate to the United States to provide their children with greater opportunities and a brighter future. Her children carry the profound memory of the strength and humility she showed during those early years, particularly the poignant sight of her wiping tables at Shakey's Pizza.

Her journey in the U.S. was a true testament to her resilience. She helped Roland launch computer businesses in Dallas and Miami, assisting with whatever was needed, including working as a cashier. Later in life, she returned to school to become a Certified Nursing Assistant, caring for patients in the orthopedic unit with compassion and dedication. Alongside her hospital work, her incredible sales skills never faded and she became affectionately known as the “Avon lady,” once again excelling in sales.

That same profound grace and loyalty extended into the more challenging chapters of their marriage. And then when Roland suffered a stroke, she lovingly cared for him through his paralysis and his journey to relearn speech. Later, when Roland's biological daughter, Arlene, reached out to find him just a few years before his passing, Merle graciously welcomed her with open arms, warmly embracing her as part of the family.

Merle had a deep love for travel and adventure. After Roland's recovery, they relished their trips back to the Philippines, staying there for months at a time and enjoying their favorite lanzones and mangoes. She enjoyed exploring the islands and beaches of the Philippines, discovering new foods and places, and spending precious time with family and friends. Though her health limited her travels, she continued to treasure destination Christmases, family reunions, and every chance to gather with loved ones, creating precious memories.

Family was always the center of Merle’s world. She considered her children and grandchildren her greatest accomplishments - her “medals” in life. She was endlessly proud of their careers, their achievements, and especially their college graduations. She lovingly called her grandchildren her angels and spoke about them constantly, boasting about them unashamedly and repeatedly to anyone willing to listen. Her affection overflowed through hugs, kisses, laughter, and encouragement Her presence filled every gathering with warmth, laughter, and comfort. Though deeply missed, her spirit lives on in the family she loved beyond measure.

Merle is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Roland. She is survived by her devoted children: Ramille Nomorosa (wife Elizabeth), Rosario “Bambi” De Jesus (husband Rey), Shirley Nomorosa, Alan Nomorosa (wife Dawn), and Arlene Cottrell. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Michael Reyes, Albert Nomorosa, Raymond De Jesus, Anthony Nomorosa, Rachel De Jesus, Leanne Villarmino, Alexis Nomorosa, and Audri Bermudez-Cottrell. She will be deeply missed by her great-grandchildren, Rome Reyes (who affectionately called her "Lola Old") and the newest addition, Maddoxx "Maxx".

A viewing will be held on Friday, June 5, 2026, from 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm. at Funeraria del Angel - Pierce Brothers Mortuary, 2333 W Merced Avenue, West Covina, CA.

The funeral mass will be celebrated on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 9:00 AM at St. Martha Catholic Church, 444 N. Azusa Avenue, Valinda, CA 91744.

The Rite of Committal and burial will take place on Saturday, June 13,2026 at 12:00 PM at Forest Lawn Cemetery, Covina, 21300 Via Verde Dr, Covina, CA 91724.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace. Amen.