Teresa Pagayon

Teresa "Tessie" Pagayon, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2024. Born in Bulacan, Philippines, in 1945, Tessie emigrated to the United States to join her family, beginning a life defined by love, generosity, and devotion to others. Tessie was adored by everyone who knew her for her boundless kindness and selflessness. She shared a beautiful life with her husband, Ding, and was a devoted mother to her three children: Joseph, Lexie, and Jay. Her heart grew even fuller as she welcomed her grandchildren—Ryan, Alexia, and Jakob—whom she loved dearly and cared for with devotion. Tessie spent countless hours nurturing Ryan and Alexia, a testament to her unwavering support and love for her family. In her later years, Tessie celebrated many of life’s precious milestones. She cherished her granddaughter Alexia’s debut and was surrounded by family and friends for her 79th birthday celebration on October 20, 2024—a beautiful gathering that filled her final days with warmth and joy. Tessie had a close bond with her family, especially her siblings Ate Metring and Sanko Turing, and she was also a devoted daughter to her mother, Inang Temeng, caring for her faithfully until her passing. Her love for her family was deep and genuine, and her connection to her siblings was a source of joy and support throughout her life.

Known for her lively personality, Tessie was rarely at a loss for words, especially with her husband, Ding. She often had complaints and quips about Ding, prompting Joseph to remind her, “Ginusto mo yan—mahilig kasi sa guapo…kaya bahala ka diyan.” They would bicker and argue over small, everyday matters, always lightheartedly. But in the end, Ding was her steadfast guardian, caring for her especially in her final years of declining health. During her later years, Tessie grew closer to her sister Ditche Sonia, who lovingly stepped in to help care for her as her health worsened. Tessie’s humor and warmth also extended to her son-in-law, Lee, whom she eventually embraced as one of her own, often turning to him for financial advice or as a mediator between her children. Tessie’s cooking was legendary in the family, with specialties like Ube Halaya, lengua, pancit bakla, Lee’s favorite arroz caldo, and tinola. She enjoyed “MARITESS” (local gossip) via Facebook and Messenger, and watching “Tulfo in Action” on YouTube, and she loved playing “Tong-ITS” during trips back to the Philippines. While she claimed not to have a green thumb, she excelled in caring for animals, lovingly tending to the family’s livestock, including “45-day chickens” and a small piggery. Her love extended to her siblings—Remy(sis in law), Sonia and Noli, Turing and Tessie, and Boy and Lulu—and to her many beloved nieces and nephews: George and Annie, Hubert, Genny, Lito and Ruth, Ronnie and Phoebe, Amil and Joy, Neph and Jay, Charles and Carol, Heidi and Dean, Lisa and Peter, Dennis and Veveth, Nanette and Ronald, Caca and Manny, Jonjon, Ayie, Yogi and Adz, Mac and Mylene, and Chua and Reign. Known for her resilience, honesty, and boundless generosity, Tessie’s legacy lives on in the hearts of her family and friends, who will forever cherish her kindness and love. Tessie will be dearly missed but always remembered with love and gratitude. May she rest in eternal peace.