Francisca Abrajano Roxas

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Francisca Roxas, known as "Nanay" to everyone. Nanay passed away peacefully on April 13, 2024 at the age of 95. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who took great pride and joy with her big family. She is preceded in death by her husband, Osias (Tatay) and two sons, Ed and Boyet. She is survived by her three remaining children (Henry, Eva and Lisa) and eleven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Nanay and Tatay were married on December 26, 1958. Nanay had a Bachelor of Science Degree in Pharmacy and worked at Fabella Memorial until she came to America with Tatay in 1975. Their five children followed a few years later. Nanay was a long-time resident of Carson, CA. For 23 years, she worked at Long Beach Memorial as a Pharmacy Technician.

Nanay was a strong woman. She took care of Tatay during his illness, until his passing at age 58. At the same time, she was the sole breadwinner, took care of the household with five children, proving her courage and tough mental health to carry on day to day.

Nanay believed in living practically and frugally. She taught us all how to save money, splurge occasionally, and to live within our means. She would cut napkins in half, reuse empty containers, and never waste food. The leftovers were always eaten the next day. She made petty cash by recycling cans, old newspapers, and computer papers from work.

Nanay was full of life and lived a healthy lifestyle. She loved and enjoyed vegetables, fruits, fish, brown rice, and oatmeal. She followed this diet religiously, for as long as she lived. She was active and energetic. While travelling with her in Europe in 1999, she outpaced me for so many miles. She even took Zumba at a later age until 92. Her energy level was no comparison to many of us.

Nanay enjoyed the company of many friends she met through the years. She attended parties and often dined out with them. She loved to dance, was the life of the party, and was on the dance floor the minute music began. She also loved to sing and would always call any of us, to sing "Happy Birthday" on the phone.

Nanay enjoyed a well-deserved retirement by becoming a world traveler. She traveled a good part of Europe, some National Parks, and traveled to several states. She also went on multiple cruises.

Nanay will be greatly missed and it is with great joy knowing she lived a long, wonderful and meaningful life that we say goodbye for now as she joins Tatay, Ed and Boyet.