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Sarah Jane Verduzco, LVN, will be remembered for her compassionate heart, her devotion to caring for others, and the love she shared with her family. Her journey into nursing was inspired early in life by her grandmother, a longtime nurse whose work at Garden Grove Nursing Home left a lasting impression on Sarah and helped shape her own calling to serve.

Following a Calling to Serve Sarah graduated from Pacific Coast College in 2021 and carried forward the example set by her grandmother. She also volunteered at the Long Beach Veterans Hospital, where she served alongside her grandmother and deepened her connection to the nursing profession. These experiences reflected the kindness, dedication, and sense of purpose that became central to her life.

A Compassionate Nurse- Much of Sarah’s nursing career was spent in hospice care with BrightStar in Santa Ana. She loved working with her patients and was devoted to making sure they felt cared for, comfortable, and respected. Her presence brought warmth to difficult moments, and she approached her work with patience, dignity, and genuine compassion.

Sarah’s care reached beyond medical support. She often shared jokes and laughter with her patients when she could, bringing comfort through kindness and human connection. She also took sincere interest in their traditions and personal histories. When caring for a Jewish doctor, for example, she made the effort to learn about his traditions so she could better understand and honor his background.

In 2013, Sarah was involved in a devastating auto accident that left her disabled and unable to return to nursing. Though the accident ended her professional nursing duties, it did not diminish the caring spirit that defined her. She continued to want the best for those around her and found great pride and joy in her four children and two granddaughters.

Sarah’s legacy lives on in the lives she touched—as a nurse, a volunteer, a mother, a grandmother, and a person who showed compassion in both small gestures and meaningful acts of care. She will be remembered with love for her warmth, her humor, her dedication, and the kindness she gave so freely to others.

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In 1973 Carol graduated from nursing and began a career she was deeply proud of as a Registered Nurse with Kaiser Permanente in Bellflower, California. During nearly 20-year tenure she served as Secretary for KBRNA and as Hospital President for KBRNA. She worked on medical, surgical unit and outpatient surgery units. Carol was both a patient advocate and a nurse advocate.

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Melanie Renee Smith, RN, dedicated her life to serving others with compassion, integrity, and unwavering kindness. A graduate of Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, Melanie earned her nursing degree in November 2017 and quickly began her career at Intercommunity Hospital in Covina, where she worked in the Direct Observation Unit (DOU).

Throughout her nursing career, Melanie was recognized for her exceptional patient care, earning multiple DAISY Awards through nominations from patients, families, and colleagues. She was known not only for her clinical skills, but for her immense empathy, strong leadership, and genuine ability to connect with those around her. Melanie treated everyone with dignity and respect, leaving a lasting impact on coworkers, patients, and families alike.

Nursing was a natural extension of Melanie’s nurturing spirit and desire to help others. She found great fulfillment in caring for those in need and ensuring that every person she encountered felt valued and seen. Whether comforting a frightened patient, supporting a family during a difficult time, or encouraging a fellow nurse, Melanie consistently gave her very best.

Even when facing her own health challenges, Melanie continued to inspire those around her with her strength, grace, and resilience. Her kindness made a lasting impression on countless lives, and her legacy lives on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside her.

Melanie will be remembered as a devoted nurse, a loyal coworker, and a compassionate soul who enriched every life she touched. Her life was truly a gift, and her dedication to caring for others serves as a lasting example of the very best of the nursing profession.

https://obituaries.forestlawn.com/obituaries/melanie-smith

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We honor the life and service of Veneranda “Vennie” Sabillo, a devoted nurse whose career reflected compassion, excellence, and unwavering dedication to others.

Nurse Vennie began her nursing journey in the Philippines, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She went on to dedicate more than 35 years of service as a Registered Nurse, providing compassionate, skilled care to countless patients and families.

Her specialty was in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), where she demonstrated exceptional expertise in caring for the most vulnerable among us—newborn infants in critical need. Through her gentle hands and steady presence, she provided not only clinical care, but comfort, hope, and reassurance to families during their most difficult moments.

Throughout her career, Nurse Vennie was known for her clinical excellence, calm leadership, and unwavering commitment to those she served. She exemplified the true spirit of nursing through both her skill and her heart.

She served as the Charge Nurse in the NICU at Kaiser Permanente in Baldwin Park, where she led her team with professionalism, mentored fellow nurses, and upheld the highest standards of care. Her leadership left a lasting impact on her colleagues and the many patients entrusted to her care.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Nurse Vennie will be remembered as a selfless, loving, and faithful individual who touched countless lives with kindness, warmth, and generosity.

Nurse Vennie’s legacy is one of compassion, leadership, and lifelong service. Her contributions to the nursing profession and to humanity will not be forgotten. The lives she touched continue to carry forward her spirit of care.

We honor Nurse Vennie for a career well served and a life well lived.

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Valerie graduated from nursing school with her RN in 1970. She worked at Kaiser hospital in Los Angeles while continuing her education receiving her BS and education credentials. She worked at St Francis, Memorial hospital, UCI, received her master's degree at UCLA and taught Case Management. Her last assignment was a Case Manager at UCI in Orange County before retiring. She loved to work ICU. Out of all her career assignments she loved ICU. She was also a trauma, cardiac, and surgery nurse. She retired after 52 years of nursing. Well done Valerie!

With solemn respect and gratitude to honor and celebrate the life and nursing career of Jill Uhle, RN. We pause to recognize her service, her compassion, and her unwavering commitment to those entrusted to her care. We remember not only the nurse she was, but the legacy she leaves within the profession.

Jill began her nursing career in 1984 after graduating from California State University, Long Beach. She started at Kaiser Permanente Bellflower, where she faithfully served patients in inpatient nursing before answering the calling to hospice care—providing comfort, dignity, and compassion at life’s most vulnerable moments.

She continued her career at Lakeview Medical Center, where she expanded her impact through many vital roles:

Medical-surgical nurse

Hospice nurse

Discharge planner

Nursing Supervisor, then known as a Nurse Clinician Performance Improvement Advisor to nursing.

Committed to lifelong learning, Jill furthered her education at the University of Southern California, proudly embracing her role as a Trojan. After her time at Lakeview, Jill continued her service at the Kaiser Permanente Regional Offices in Pasadena as a Performance Improvement Advisor. In this role, she helped guide and strengthen care across Southern California, leading efforts to improve outcomes in:

Stroke

Heart failure

Sepsis

Jill was a steadfast advocate—for her patients, for her colleagues, and for the nursing profession. She believed in continuous improvement, in doing what is right, and in lifting others along the way. She was a mentor, a teacher, and a trusted voice, always willing to share her knowledge and support the growth of others.

Jill lived the values of nursing each day, representing the profession with excellence, compassion, and integrity. As we honor Jill, we recognize a life of service that will not be forgotten. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched, the nurses she mentored, and the care she helped improve.

May we carry forward her dedication, her advocacy, and her spirit of compassion.

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We honor and remember Sandra “Sandy” Yates-Henderson, a devoted nurse whose career spanned more than three decades of compassionate service, leadership, and dedication to others.

Sandy began her career in 1973 after earning her Practical Nursing diploma in Indiana. She continued advancing her education throughout her life, earning her Associate of Science degree from Long Beach City College in 1977, attending the Los Angeles County Medical Center School of Nursing in 1980, and later completing her Bachelor of Science degree from Fullerton College in 1990. Her dedication to lifelong learning reflected the deep commitment she had to her profession and to the people she served.

She spent much of her career at Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center, where she became known not only for her clinical skill, but also for her leadership, compassion, and unwavering advocacy for patients and staff alike. Through hard work, determination, and integrity, Sandra rose through the ranks to become Director of Nursing, an accomplishment she was deeply proud of.

Sandra chose nursing because she genuinely cared about the wellbeing of others. She believed that even small acts of kindness and care could change someone’s life. What she loved most about nursing was knowing she could make a difference each day, whether comforting a patient, supporting a family, or mentoring a young nurse beginning their career.

She was especially respected for her leadership and mentorship. Sandra trained and guided many nurses throughout her career, and many of those professional relationships became lifelong friendships. She led by example with strength, compassion, and empathy and inspired countless others to pursue excellence in patient care.

Sandra’s impact extended far beyond the hospital walls. Her career influenced her family and community by showing the value of service, perseverance, education, and compassion for others. She carried herself with dignity and purpose, always believing that caring for people was both a responsibility and a privilege. Above all, Sandra would want to be remembered as someone who truly cared for her patients, her coworkers, her family, and her community. Nursing was never simply a job to her; it was her calling, and she dedicated her life to serving others with kindness, strength, and heart.

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We honor and remember Paul Villamil, RN , a dedicated nurse whose life was defined by compassion, service, and unwavering commitment to others. Like Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, Paul answered a calling—not just to treat illness, but to bring comfort, dignity, and healing to those in their most vulnerable moments. Nursing was not simply his profession; it was his purpose.

Paul graduated from the University of Pangasinan in Dagupan City, Philippines, earning his Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 1991. He began his nursing journey at the National Kidney Institute in Quezon City, where he served as a staff nurse, building the foundation of skill and compassion that would define his career. In 1995, Paul brought his dedication to the United States, where he continued his work at Mercy Medical Center in Laredo, Texas. There, he served as both staff nurse and charge nurse in the MICU/SICU, specializing in the care of patients undergoing open heart surgeries and craniotomies—a role that required exceptional expertise, calmness, and strength.

He later worked at Good Samaritan Hospital in Los Angeles, California, and from 2000 to 2008, he generously shared his knowledge and skill as a travel nurse, bringing care and healing to countless patients across multiple hospitals.

In 2008, Paul became a charge nurse at Emanate Health Foothill Presbyterian Hospital in Glendora, California, where he continued to lead, mentor, and serve with distinction. In 2021, he joined Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center, working as a per-diem registered nurse in the Coronary Care Unit. During this time, Paul was recognized with multiple perfect attendance awards, a reflection of his dedication, reliability, and deep sense of responsibility to his patients and his team.

Paul was known not only for his clinical excellence, but for his kind heart, gentle presence, and genuine compassion. He touched lives in ways that cannot be measured—in quiet moments of reassurance, in skilled hands that brought healing, and in a spirit that lifted those around him. We honor a nurse whose work made the world softer, kinder, and more human.

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Marie graduated with her LVN on 09.01.1978 as a single-mom as a way to support her family. She worked primarily in geriatrics. She decided to go back to school to earn her nursing degree. She graduated from Glendale Community College on 05.22.1997 with her ASN. She focused on geriatric patients, but also worked in Oncology.

We gather to honor a remarkable woman whose life was defined by compassion and strength. As a nurse, she devoted herself to easing pain and restoring dignity, offering comfort not only through her skill, but through her presence. She understood that healing goes beyond medicine—it lives in kindness, patience, and the simple act of truly seeing another person.

To her family, she was so much more than her profession. She was a steady source of warmth and unwavering support. Marie welcomed others with an open heart, gave generously of herself, and carried herself in a way that made people feel safe and cared for. Her love shaped the lives around her in lasting ways.

We will remember her not only for what she did, but for who she was—a truly extraordinary woman whose spirit continues to guide and inspire us. She will always be loved and never forgotten.

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The ceremony is lead by the magnet committee for the fallen RN's, NP's and PA's for the last year in the serenity garden by the ED entrance. The ceremony is part of Nurse's Week celebration.

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Born in the Bronx, New York in 1941. Her family moved to California when Michele was a young girl settling in Covina, CA. She began her nursing career in 1966, graduating with her LVN from Citrus College in Glendora, CA. Michele soon earned her RN from Los Angeles Trade-Technical College, and her Pediatric Nurse Practitioner from UCLA. Later she would earn her BSN, MSN, and Ph.D in Nursing.

After earning her PNP, Michele was instrumental in beginning the Head Start program in Los Angeles County, CA. She was listed in Who’s Who in the West for her contributions. As her career matured, Michele shifted her focus to Quality Management. Michele always strived for excellence in nursing, and was a staunch advocate for the health and welfare of nurses, studying nurse fatigue and patient harm.

Michele’s career spanned from 1966 to 2016, when she was diagnosed with Early Onset Alzheimer’s DiseaseShe was a beloved colleague to many, and was affectionately known as Dr. Mom to her three children, Michael, Stephanie, and Andrea. She passed peacefully in her sleep on March 7th, 2026 while under hospice care.

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Florame Tancinco Ramirez devoted her life to the calling of nursing, serving with compassion, dedication, and quiet leadership for decades. A proud graduate of St. Teresita School of Nursing, Class of 1971, she began her nursing career in July 1971, answering a call that would shape not only her own life, but the lives of her family, colleagues, and countless patients.

Throughout her distinguished career, Florame served in a wide range of healthcare settings, including: Capitol Medical Center (1971–1972), Armed Forces of the Philippines Medical Center – V. Luna General Hospital, FHP, Coastal Community Hospital, Fairview Developmental Center, Kindred Hospital, St. Joseph, University of California, Irvine (UCI), and Multiple skilled nursing facilities and nursing registries.

Her clinical experience spanned Postpartum, Medical-Surgical, and Pediatrics, where she was known for her calm presence, clinical skill, and deep empathy for patients and families. Among her proudest accomplishments was attaining the role of Clinical Nurse III in Postpartum, a testament to her expertise and commitment to excellence.

Florame was also a gifted educator and mentor. While at V. Luna General Hospital, she served as a clinical instructor, shaping the next generation of nurses through patience, encouragement, and high standards. Her influence extended far beyond the bedside—she made a lasting difference in the careers of those she mentored and inspired.

Interestingly, nursing was not her first dream. Florame initially felt called to religious life and once hoped to become a nun. However, her path ultimately led her to a nursing profession she came to love deeply. She found purpose in caring for others and fulfillment in making a meaningful difference in the lives of her patients and mentees.

Her legacy is profoundly personal as well as professional. Three of her four children became nurses, following her and carrying forward her passion for service, compassion, and integrity. Florame will be remembered as kind‑hearted, ever compassionate, and always welcoming others with a warm smile. Her life exemplified the true spirit of nursing—service, mentorship, and love for humanity. It is with deep respect and gratitude that we honor Florame Tancinco Ramirez, RN, for a lifetime of faithful service to the nursing profession.

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Joyce began her nursing journey with graduation from Deaconess Hospital School of Nursing in Buffalo, New York, on September 12, 1955. Immediately following graduation, she worked for a gynecologist in Syracuse, New York, beginning her professional career with dedication and skill. In 1956, Joyce married her “Prince Charming” and soon became a devoted mother to two daughters, lovingly placing her nursing career on hold to focus on her family. When she returned to nursing, she found her true calling in skilled nursing and geriatric care, where her compassion and integrity flourished.

In 1977, Joyce joined Beverly Manor Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Seal Beach, California, beginning what would become the most defining chapter of her professional life. She led not by authority, but by example earning the trust, respect, and affection of the nurses she supported. Many credit Joyce with helping them grow professionally, and several are here today as a testament to her lasting impact.

During her time at Beverly Manor, she rose to the role of Director of Nursing, a position she held with exceptional integrity, loyalty, and compassion. She was widely respected and deeply loved by the nurses she led, many of whom remain grateful for her mentorship and are present today in her honor.

Joyce believed leadership meant lifting others up. She took the time to mentor nurses and administrators, encouraging them to see their own potential. Her steady presence brought comfort and confidence, and her warmth brought smiles—so much so that her brother lovingly nicknamed “J.O.,” a nickname that reflected the joy she carried into every room.

Even after her retirement in 1997, her service did not end. She returned as a volunteer, visiting residents who had no family, sitting with them, listening to them, and ensuring they never felt alone. She held a deep and abiding love for the elderly, especially those facing life’s most vulnerable moments and often remained with them until the end of life. Her heart held a special place for the elderly, and she treated every patient with dignity, respect, and genuine kindness.

Her legacy is one of selfless service, compassionate leadership, and profound devotion to geriatric nursing. She lived her nursing oath not just as a profession, but as a way of life.

Eleanor “Elly” Ghan devoted her life to the art and science of nursing, leaving a legacy defined not only by clinical excellence, but by leadership, loyalty, and human connection. Elly began her nursing journey after graduating from Chong Hua Nursing School in the Philippines, where she laid the foundation for a career marked by dedication, courage, and compassion.

From the very beginning, nursing was not simply her profession—it was her calling. Throughout her distinguished career, Elly served in many healthcare settings, including Chapman Global, West Anaheim, Kaiser Permanente, and Buena Vista. At Buena Vista, Elly rose to the role of Director of Nursing for the Skilled Nursing Facility and Sub‑Acute Unit, where her leadership profoundly shaped the quality of care and the culture of the organization. What made Elly truly extraordinary—and what defines her nursing legacy—was her unmatched ability to connect with people. She valued every member of her team, from bedside staff to leadership, and she led with respect, authenticity, and heart. Elly did not simply manage teams; she built families.

Her leadership inspired fierce loyalty. Time and again, when Elly moved on to a new opportunity, her staff chose to follow her. Teams reunited, facilities transformed, and excellence followed—because where Elly went, standards rose and care flourished. This happened repeatedly throughout her career, and those who worked with her proudly referred to themselves as Elly’s team.

Together, Elly and her teams delivered top‑notch care to countless patients and families. Her influence reached far beyond policies or procedures—it was felt in confidence restored, dignity preserved, and lives touched.

We honor Eleanor “Elly” Ghan not only for the places she served, but for the people she lifted, the leaders she shaped, and the legacy she leaves behind. Her light continues to guide all who had the privilege to walk beside her in the noble profession of nursing.

https://vimeo.com/showcase/sjfrpv-curr-special?video=1180000197#t=1h19m26s

https://open.spotify.com/episode/0X4WJDVvujVM0EBvHNFurj?si=nPQgvKiLQ86im00rg6fh9A

Nicole Ludwick was a compassionate Registered Nurse whose life and career reflected the very heart of nursing. From a young age, Nicole knew she was called to this profession. Inspired by her family—especially her aunt, a nurse, and her uncle, a physician—she learned early that nursing and medicine were not simply careers, but acts of compassion, courage, and service to others. The loss of her aunt to cancer further deepened Nicole’s commitment to the healing professions and strengthened her resolve to care for others with presence and love.

Nicole pursued her calling with purpose, completing her nursing education at Loma Linda University, graduating in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic—a time that demanded extraordinary resilience from those entering the profession. She stepped into nursing with quiet courage and unwavering dedication.

Her very first position as a Registered Nurse was in postpartum care at MemorialCare Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach—a place that immediately felt like home. There, Nicole supported mothers, newborns, and families during some of life’s most vulnerable and profound moments. She provided education, reassurance, advocacy, and hands-on care at the very beginning of life, understanding that postpartum nursing addressed not only physical needs, but emotional and spiritual ones as well.

At the bedside, Nicole was known for her calm presence, gentle spirit, and genuine ability to help families feel safe, confident, and supported. Nursing was not simply what she did—it was who she was. Even while courageously facing her own battle with a rare and aggressive cancer, Nicole continued to embody the essence of nursing. She lived with humility, resilience, and grace, remaining deeply aware of the importance of presence, connection, and compassion—both as a nurse and as a patient.

Nicole Ludwick lived her calling with strength and purpose. Her legacy endures through the families she supported, the lives she helped begin, and the profession she honored through her devoted and loving service.

We honor the life and service of Nicole Ludwick, RN. Through her hands, her presence, and her heart, Nicole lived the true spirit of nursing. She met families at the beginning of life with compassion and grace, offering calm where there was uncertainty, reassurance where there was fear, and love where it was most needed. Her care extended beyond skills and knowledge—it reached the soul.

Nicole’s light as a nurse did not fade in the face of adversity. Even as she faced her own journey with courage, she continued to teach us what it truly means to serve: to show up with humility, to care deeply, and to remain fully present in each moment.

We release Nicole from her earthly duties with gratitude and respect. Her watch is complete. Her legacy remains—in the lives she helped begin, the families she comforted, and the profession she honored through devoted service. May we carry forward the example she set, remembering that nursing is more than a profession—it is a calling of the heart. May she rest in peace, forever honored, forever remembered.

We remember Nurse Lisa—a nurse whose journey into nursing was guided by love, strength, and a deep desire to care for others. Lisa’s calling to nursing began close to home. While caring for her husband during his courageous battle with cancer, she discovered the profound impact of compassion, presence, and gentle care. From that deeply personal experience, the seed was planted for a life devoted to nursing.

Lisa graduated from LVN school in 2012, carrying with her not only clinical knowledge, but also a heart shaped by resilience and empathy. She began her nursing career in home health, where she quietly made a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and families—often during moments that mattered most.

In time, Lisa found her place as a school nurse, a role that suited her perfectly. Traveling from school to school, she became a trusted and steady presence for students who needed comfort, reassurance, or simply someone who cared. And they loved her. To them, she wasn’t just the nurse—she was Nurse Lisa. Her commitment didn’t end with the school day. Lisa was deeply involved in the ACES after-school program, continuing to support and encourage students beyond the classroom. She showed up consistently, listened patiently, and cared deeply—just as nurses do.

Lisa may not be remembered by the number of years she worked, but by the countless moments when her presence mattered. In classrooms, hallways, clinics, and quiet conversations.

Janine possessed a gentle strength and a caring spirit that drew her naturally to the profession of nursing. She graduated from Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tennessee, in 2013, and went on to dedicate 12 years of her life to nursing—not simply as a career, but as a calling.

In 2021, Janine joined the Acute Rehabilitation Department at Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center in San Pedro. It did not take long for her leadership, clinical skill, and calm presence to shine. She quickly became a Charge Nurse, earning the trust and respect of both her colleagues and patients alike. Her commitment to excellence was recognized when she was nominated for the Nurse Excellence Award two years in a row—a reflection of the impact she made every single day.

Her colleagues consistently described JG as “the sweetest person ever.” She was always looking for ways to learn, grow, and improve, both professionally and personally. She carried herself with an unfailingly positive attitude, approaching challenges with grace, humility, and determination. Even on the hardest days, her kindness and warmth uplifted those around her.

Her patients felt her compassion in the way she spoke, listened, and cared—fully, attentively, and selflessly. Her coworkers knew her as someone who made every shift better simply by being there, her ever‑ready smile a quiet reassurance in moments of stress.

To her family, JG was nothing short of an angel on earth. She was a beloved daughter to Joel Kuan Sr. and Glace Guido‑Kuan, a devoted sister to Joel Kuan Jr. and Jan Rhys Kuan, and a constant source of joy, laughter, and unconditional love. She gave of herself freely—her time, her care, and her heart—without ever asking for anything in return.

To her friends, she was a steady light: genuine, loyal, and deeply kind. She had a remarkable gift for making others feel seen, valued, and cared for. Many can say their lives are better simply because Janine was part of them.

Though her physical presence is no longer with us, her legacy lives on—in every patient she comforted, every colleague she supported, and every heart she touched. Janine’s life is a testament to compassion in action, service with humility, and love without condition. She will be deeply missed, endlessly loved, and forever remembered.

Rainier “Jett” Gloria, MSN, FNP‑C, RN, devoted his nursing career to compassionate service, clinical excellence, and leadership. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Dr. Carlos S. Lanting College in Quezon City, Philippines, graduating in 2007, and began working as a registered nurse in 2009. He later advanced his education, completing his Master’s degree and Family Nurse Practitioner program at Charles Drew University in California.

Jett spent the majority of his nursing career in the Emergency Department, serving patients at Community Hospital of Huntington Park, White Memorial Medical Center, and Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center. Known for his leadership, he served as a relief charge nurse and was a trusted preceptor for many new graduate and newly hired ER nurses. His mentorship emphasized not only clinical skills, but also compassion, teamwork, resilience, and communication.

In 2024, Jett was awarded the Excellence in Clinical Nursing Practice by the Mervyn Dymally College of Nursing at Charles Drew University, recognizing his outstanding role modeling, compassionate care, and nursing excellence. As a certified Family Nurse Practitioner, he continued to serve patients as an ER Nurse Practitioner at Garfield Medical Center and as an Advanced Wound Specialist Nurse Practitioner with Wound Rescue.

Jett was known for treating every patient with dignity, respect, and humanity, even in the fast‑paced and chaotic environment of the Emergency Department. He valued integrity above all else and believed deeply in lifting others up. His influence inspired many colleagues to pursue advanced nursing education, with several following his path to become Nurse Practitioners.

Above all, Jett wished to be remembered as “a man for others.” He led with empathy, integrity, and kindness, measuring success not by personal achievement, but by the positive impact he made on the lives of patients, families, and colleagues. His legacy lives on through those he mentored and the countless lives he touched through compassionate care.

In his own words, and the way he lived his life: “Live your life to the fullest. Oh! Game na! Shot na!!”

Sherry Cline Martin’s nursing journey was one of lifelong learning, dedication, and service to others. Sherry graduated from Downey High School in 1978 and went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Mount Saint Mary’s University in Los Angeles in 1982. Soon after, she began her nursing career at Downey Community Hospital, which later became PIH Health, where she faithfully served for many years.

Throughout her career, Sherry worked in multiple nursing departments, gaining experience and touching lives across the continuum of care. She served as a chemotherapy nurse, providing compassionate, skilled care to patients during some of their most vulnerable moments, and later became Charge Nurse of the department, providing leadership, guidance, and support to both patients and staff.

Driven by a passion for teaching and professional growth, Sherry later transitioned into the Nurse Education Department, where she helped shape and mentor future generations of nurses. When PIH Health transitioned ownership, Sherry embraced the opportunity to further her education. While working full-time, she attended the University of Phoenix, demonstrating remarkable dedication and perseverance, and in July of 2015, she earned her Master of Science in Nursing.

Following her graduate studies, Sherry served as Director of Medical-Surgical Nursing for approximately one year. Ultimately, her heart called her back to education, where she returned to the Education Department, continuing to inspire and guide her colleagues. Sherry maintained professional excellence through multiple certifications, including BLS, ACLS, and CRNI, reflecting her commitment to high standards of nursing practice.

Sherry Cline Martin is remembered not by the number of years she worked, but by the difference she made—through her compassion, leadership, dedication to education, and unwavering service to others. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the nurses she mentored, and the patients who felt her care.

Though her earthly nursing duties are now complete, Sherry’s light continues to shine in the memories held dear and the lives touched by her care.

Rani Singh, RN, CMSRN, dedicated her nursing career to serving others with compassion, integrity, and quiet strength. She graduated from Regents College in 2000 and began her nursing journey guided by a lifelong desire to care for those in need and to always do what was right for her patients.

Rani worked at Simi Valley Hospital and later at Kaiser Permanente Woodland Hills, where she served on 5 North and in the Neurosurgery Clinic. Her clinical background included Medical-Surgical and Telemetry nursing, as well as specialized neurosurgical care. She was deeply respected for her strong clinical judgment, problem‑solving abilities, and unwavering advocacy for patients.

One of Rani’s proudest professional accomplishments was her instrumental role in supporting Dr. Ananda with the Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Program in Southern California. As a neurosurgery nurse, she helped coordinate complex DBS care, ensuring patients received seamless, compassionate, and well‑organized treatment throughout their journey.

Rani earned her CMSRN (Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse) certification, reflecting her commitment to excellence and lifelong learning. She was also a natural leader and mentor, serving as a preceptor to many new graduate nurses who later advanced into ICU roles. She consistently encouraged colleagues to pursue nursing education and professional growth.

Rani chose nursing because she wanted to serve others. She loved caring for patients and solving problems that made a true difference in their lives. Known as a strong and steady presence, she was a trusted support to both patients and coworkers alike.

Rani carried the values of honesty, integrity, and selflessness throughout her career. She did not seek recognition—she simply did the right thing for her patients. That commitment is the legacy she leaves behind and the way she will be remembered.

Marcella Elizabeth Hoffman, RN lived a life defined by nursing, compassion, and unwavering love for others. Nursing was not simply her profession—it was her calling, her instinct, and her lifelong gift. Trained as a diploma nurse at Holy Family School of Nursing in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, Marcella answered the call to care early in life. From her first days at the bedside, she embodied the values that define nursing: comfort offered freely, courage in difficult moments, kindness without condition, and steadfast devotion to duty.

Marcella carried nursing far beyond the clinical setting. She practiced it every day of her life—raising twelve children with strength and tenderness, offering calm reassurance in moments of fear, tending injuries both small and great, and standing faithfully beside those in need. Her presence alone brought peace; her hands brought healing; her heart brought hope. Marcella’s nursing training would serve her well through life, both professionally and at home. Baking soda paste for bee stings and other itchy things, and hydrogen peroxide for cuts and scrapes. Occasionally, she would spray a little window cleaner on a scrape. She was asked years later why she used window cleaner, and she said, “Because you thought it worked” …the mind is a powerful thing.

Rooted in the faith, resilience, and work ethic learned on a Wisconsin dairy farm, Marcella understood that true care requires sacrifice and perseverance. She walked with others through joy and sorrow alike, offering compassionate support without judgment and love without expectation. Even in life’s most challenging seasons, including caring for her beloved husband through illness, Marcella’s nursing spirit never wavered. She showed us that nursing is not only about healing the body, but about honoring dignity, comforting the soul, and remaining present until the very end.

We honor Marcella’s life of service and the countless lives she touched through her dedication as a nurse, a mother, a wife, and a friend. Though her earthly nursing has ended, her light continues to shine—in her family, in her example, and in every heart she cared for.

Emily Alexander lived a life devoted to caring for others. For more than sixty years, she answered the sacred calling of nursing with skill, humility, and a deeply compassionate heart. Through her steady presence, gentle touch, and unwavering dedication, Emily brought comfort, healing, and hope to countless patients, families, and colleagues. Emily received her nursing education at East Los Angeles College and Los Angeles Trade Technical College, preparing her for a career that would span decades and touch many areas of healthcare. She served with distinction in medical-surgical nursing—her favorite specialty—as well as postpartum care, maternal-child health, labor and delivery recovery, infectious disease, and home health nursing. In hospitals throughout Los Angeles and the San Gabriel Valley, she was trusted as a team leader known for professionalism, integrity, and calm leadership.

As a home health nurse, Emily supervised LVNs and CNAs and was deeply committed to teaching and mentoring others. She believed strongly in patient education, home safety, and empowering families with knowledge and confidence. Her colleagues remember her patience, wisdom, and willingness to guide and encourage—especially young nurses finding their way. Emily was a lifelong learner who maintained her nursing credentials as long as possible and continued to inspire others even after retirement. She often reminded those she mentored not to give up, especially in moments of challenge, and to remain faithful to their calling.

We remember Emily not only for the many years she served as a nurse, but for the difference she made in each life she touched. Her compassion, courage, and quiet strength live on in the hearts of those she cared for and the nurses she inspired. Emily Alexander’s earthly nursing duties are complete, but her legacy of love, service, and faith will endure forever.

From an early age, Debbie's compassion and steadiness made nursing a natural calling. She graduated from Beatrice High School in 1971 and went on to complete her nursing education at St. Elizabeth School of Nursing in Grand Island, earning her diploma in 1973. Debbie began her career as a pediatric nurse at St. Luke’s Hospital, where she cared for children with tenderness, skill, and deep devotion from 1973 to 1986.

While working full‑time, Debbie advanced her education with remarkable determination—earning both her Master’s Degree and her PhD in Nursing from the University of Missouri–Kansas City. Her dedication to the profession shone brightly in everything she did. In 1986, Debbie brought her expertise and her heart to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA), serving as a Nurse Practitioner for critically ill and immunocompromised children. Her leadership and innovation were extraordinary.

In 1998, Debbie founded the Comfort, Pain, and Palliative Care Program, as well as the Anesthesiology Critical Care Medicine Department, shaping the way CHLA cared for its most vulnerable patients. In 2021, Debbie created the hospital’s Dog Therapy Program, recognizing the healing power of connection and comfort. What began as her personal vision flourished—within a year, the program grew significantly, eventually supporting nearly 30 team members by the time she retired in 2023. Debbie continued consulting through the spring of 2024, ensuring the programs she built would continue to thrive.

Debbie returned to Kansas City in 2024 to be closer to family. Her journey was marked by extraordinary resilience. A double transplant recipient in 2012—receiving a kidney from her brother Steve and a pancreas from a young donor—Debbie overcame medical challenges with strength, gratitude, and courage. She was diabetic from 1972 until her transplants, and she faced every trial with grace and a fighter’s spirit.

Beyond nursing, Debbie loved to travel and teach. She shared her expertise nationwide through seminars on comfort care for children. She explored Europe, Australia, Hawaii, Italy, and more—often traveling with her beloved mother, Bernice. And at the center of her heart were her cherished dogs: Ruff & Tumble, and later Milo and Odie, who brought joy, companionship, and unconditional love.

We honor Debbie with gratitude, and we carry her light forward with the same devotion she brought to every day of her life.

Arrive at 11:30 am. Come to the hospital entrance and ask for the Spiritual Guide - Dagmar Grefe - YOU WILL NEED YOUR DRIVER'S LICENSE for entrance as a visitor to the hospital. Parking will be validated.

 Give yourself time for parking and navigating the site.  We will huddle and distribute assignments, caps, and capes as needed. Wear white for the ceremony, a cape, and a cap. If you don't have a cape or cap, loaners will be available.

Julie Anne Halamicek, RN, dedicated her life to the noble calling of nursing with unwavering compassion, integrity, and professionalism. Her career reflected a deep commitment to service—service to her patients, to their families, and to the colleagues who were privileged to work alongside her.

Julie Anne did far more than fulfill the duties of a nurse; she carried herself with a grace and presence that brought reassurance to those in her care, even in life’s most vulnerable moments. Throughout her years in nursing, Julie Anne became a steady source of comfort, offering calm when fear was present and clarity when uncertainty clouded the moment. She met every challenge with a steady hand and a thoughtful heart, guided by a profound belief in the dignity and worth of every person she served. Her ability to see the individual behind the illness, the family behind the worry, and the human being behind the need was a testament to her character and to her calling.

Her colleagues remember her not only for her skill, but for her kindness—for the way she listened, supported, encouraged, and uplifted others. She shared her knowledge generously, mentored with patience, and fostered a sense of unity and purpose within her teams. Julie Anne’s compassion extended beyond clinical expertise; it was present in each interaction, each gesture, and each moment of connection she offered during her career.

Julie Anne leaves behind a legacy defined by the countless lives she touched: the patients who felt safe in her care, the families who found solace in her presence, and the nurses who were inspired by her dedication. Her work echoes far beyond the walls of any facility—carried forward in the stories shared, the comfort remembered, and the lives forever changed because she was there.

Marc Makiri, RN, devoted his life to the service of others through the art and science of nursing. Throughout his career, Marc was known for his steady presence, his quiet strength, and his deep commitment to delivering compassionate care. He approached every patient with dignity and respect, offering comfort in difficult moments and hope when it was needed most.

Marc’s presence brought comfort, his actions brought healing, and his spirit brought hope. He touched lives quietly but deeply, leaving behind a legacy defined not by titles or tasks, but by moments of humanity and grace.

Marc’s dedication extended far beyond clinical skill—he was a mentor, a support, and a trusted colleague. He uplifted those around him with his professionalism, his kindness, and his willingness to step forward whenever someone needed help. His calm leadership and unwavering integrity made him a nurse others looked up to, and a friend whose presence brought reassurance.

Whether caring for patients, guiding families, or supporting his team, Marc exemplified the highest values of the nursing profession. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the compassion he shared, and the healing he brought into the world.

We honor not only his years as a nurse, but the profound difference he made during those years—one patient, one moment, one act of kindness at a time.

Marc’s light continues in all the lives he cared for, all the colleagues he inspired, and all the hearts he lifted along his journey. May his memory be a blessing, and may his service forever be honored.

We celebrate the extraordinary life of Nenita Torqueza, who passed away at 81 years old — a woman whose life was defined by love, faith, and selfless service.

    For 43 remarkable years, she served as a NICU nurse at Kaiser Hospital, answering a calling that was so much more than a profession. She used to say that the cries of babies were “music to her ears.” Where others heard alarms and urgency, she heard hope. Where others saw fragile beginnings, she saw miracles waiting to unfold. She believed she was an angel on earth — and to so many families, she truly was.

    She had a gift. She could sense when a sick baby needed just a little more care, a little more attention, a little more love. With steady hands and a compassionate heart, she helped guide countless newborns toward health and home. But her care didn’t stop with the babies — she comforted anxious parents, offered reassurance during uncertain moments, and became a quiet pillar of strength in some of the most vulnerable times of their lives.

   Her journey began in the Philippines, where she was born and raised before bravely immigrating to the United States in pursuit of opportunity and service. She worked at several hospitals throughout her nursing career, including Cook County Hospital in Chicago, Illinois and hospitals throughout Los Angeles, California. She carried with her the resilience, warmth, and deep faith that defined her roots, building a life grounded in hard work, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion to her family.

    Beyond her profession, she was the heart and rock of the home.She was a devoted wife to her late husband, Vivencio Torqueza, caring for him tenderly in his final year with the same compassion she showed her tiny patients. She was a loving mother to four daughters, raising them with patience, strength, and faith. She taught them by example — how to give without expecting anything in return, how to endure hardships with grace, and how to trust in God’s plan even when the road felt uncertain.

     As a grandmother to seven grandchildren, she poured out her love endlessly. Her arms were always open, her prayers always constant, her pride in her family unmistakable. She was the safe place, the encourager, the quiet warrior.

      She was also a friend, a daughter, a sister — but above all, she was love in action. Her life was not measured only in years, but in the countless lives she touched: the babies she helped save, the families she comforted, the friends she supported, and the family she cherished with her whole heart.

    Her legacy lives on. It lives on in the healthy adults who once fit in her hands. It lives on in her daughters and grandchildren. It lives on in every act of kindness inspired by her example.

If the cries of babies were music to her ears, then surely heaven welcomed her with the most beautiful symphony.
    She is loved and her love will be carried forward - always.

Vivian Bagatt, LVN, dedicated her life to caregiving with a heart full of compassion and a spirit grounded in service. Vivian carried her natural kindness into every aspect of her nursing career and into the lives of all she touched. She leaves behind a legacy of love, comfort, and unwavering devotion.

Vivian’s work as a nurse reflected who she was—gentle, attentive, and selfless. She gave generously to those under her care, always offering not just her professional skill but her warmth, patience, and deep empathy. Her presence brought comfort to patients and families alike, and she served with humility and dedication throughout her nursing journey.

Beyond her calling as a nurse, Vivian was the heart of her family. Her greatest pride was her family. She celebrated her children’s and grandchildren’s achievements with unwavering support and joy. Her daughter, Tess Villagracia, and her son, Mike Bagatt, along with her grandchildren—Brandon, Casey, Ally, Aiden, and Mason—and her great‑grandson, Cillian, carry forward her legacy. Their lives are forever shaped by her kindness, her laughter, and the love she poured into them.

We honor the life of Vivian Bagatt, LVN, whose gentle spirit and compassionate heart touched countless lives. Vivian served with quiet strength, unwavering kindness, and a dedication that reflected the truest essence of nursing. Her hands brought comfort, her presence brought peace, and her love created bonds that will endure for generations.

Though her earthly duties are complete, her light continues to shine—in the memories shared by her family, in the lives of those she cared for, and in the legacy of compassion she leaves behind. Vivian’s devotion to caregiving, her joy in simple pleasures, and her deep love for her family will forever remain a testament to a life lived with purpose and grace.

As we say farewell, we carry forward her spirit of kindness, her generosity, and the love she poured into the world. May she rest in peace, forever remembered, forever cherished, and forever honored.

Arrive at the graveside at 1 pm. You will need to check into the office for the site.

 Give yourself time for parking and navigating the site.  We will huddle and distribute assignments, caps, and capes as needed.