Tereza "Tessie" Borja

It is with deep and profound sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Tereza “Tessie” Borja. Tessie was called to heaven on Friday, July 25, 2025, at the age of 91.

Tessie was born in Vintar, Ilocos Norte in the Philippines on October 15, 1933. She graduated from Holy Ghost Catholic School in 1950, then attended Chinese General College, where she received her Nursing Degree. As a young, brave, and independent woman, Tessie left the Philippines and moved to Canada to continue her nursing education. From there, she moved to New York City and began her Nursing Career. In 1965, she married her love, Benjamin Borja, at the beautiful St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City. Tessie and Ben started their family and had two children, Benje and Tessa. In 1968, the family moved to Sacramento, California where they made many memories with family and life-long friends.

Tessie was a faithful child of God. She was a loving wife to the late Benjamin Borja for over 31 years; devoted mother to Benje (wife Lynn) and Tessa (husband Scott); caring Lola to Breyton (wife Analissa), Raquel, Alyssa (husband Jordan), Andrew, and Ginelle. Tessie was also loved by extended family members, “cousins”, many friends from her childhood, Nursing Career, Good Shepherd Church family, and her best friend/companion the late Agri Tabotabo.

Tessie will be forever missed by all who loved her so dearly.

Rosary and Viewing will be held on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, from 5:00pm - 8:00pm at East Lawn in Elk Grove, California. The Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at 11:00am at Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Elk Grove, CA.