It was 93 years ago when Jovita was born in Lambunao, Iloilo, Philippines. The town is on one of the Visayan Islands. She is the youngest of a farming family of six.
Years before the second world war, Pelagia, the eldest sister, decided to venture out to Manila. She survived the war and while working for a Spanish family met and married Timoteo Panis. They raised their family in Manila.
When the other siblings began to leave their hometown. Pelagia asked Jovita to join her in Manila where she started her high school education.
Jovita was successful with her education. Acquired a Bachelor of Science in Commerce degree. Law degree came next. However, instead of obtaining a license to practice law in the Philippine, she chose to immigrate to Canada.
Jovita did very well in Canada. She worked in the insurance industry and the Canada Post Office, where she worked for over twenty years.
Jovita paved the way for seven nephews and nieces plus her eldest sister, Pelagia, to immigrate and establish themselves in Canada.
Jovita is survived by her nephews, nieces, and their families.
Viewing will be at Kearney Columbia-Bowell Chapel (219 6th Street, New Westminster) on Tuesday, May 24 from 5pm – 9pm.
Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of Sorrows Parish (555 Slocan Street, Vancouver) on Wednesday, May 25 at 11:00 am.
Following the Mass, the burial will take place at The Gardens of Gethsemani Cemetery in Surrey.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Jovita L Laraya 1929 2022..
Death notice for the town of: Vancouver, Province: Colombie britanique