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.

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.

Fleurette began her journey in nursing with purpose and determination, earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Saint Louis University in 1960. Even as a student, she devoted herself to caring for patients at Firmin Desloge Hospital. There, she continued her service after graduation, balancing the demands of a new career with the joys of married life and the birth of her first child. Within those hospital walls, she also met the medical resident who would become her husband—beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in healing and care.

When Fleurette later stepped away from full‑time nursing to raise their three children, her heart never left the profession. Nursing was woven into her identity, a thread running through her life just as it had through the generations before and after her. Her mother had served as a nurse during the 1919 Spanish influenza pandemic, and that legacy lived on not only in Fleurette but in her daughter, who also chose the nursing path.

From 1990 to 1997, Fleurette returned to the medical field she loved, working side by side with her husband in his busy cardiology practice. In those years, she again brought comfort, skill, and calm assurance to those who needed it—reaffirming her lifelong commitment to care.

Fleurette spoke often and proudly of being a nurse. To her, nursing was never simply a career; it was a way of life. Through her service, her family, her example, and her deep devotion, she carried forward a legacy of compassion that began long before her and continues long after.

We honor Fleurette for a life lived in the true spirit of Florence Nightingale—one of service, dedication, and love. Her light endures in the generations she inspired and the countless lives she touched.

We honor Lucille Trinkle, RN, who attended Cypress College from Spring of 1976 to Spring of 1978. Graduated with a Nursing Degree - June 9, 1978, Registered Nurse. 

Lucille worked in Oncology at St. Jude Hospital in Fullerton, CA, then transferred to Behavioral Health at Whittier Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital in Whittier, CA, where she retired. She became a nurse later in life, having been a homemaker for her 4 children prior to that. She is survived by her 4 children, 5 grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren.

Lucille’s service to others was deeply rooted in her life experiences. As a mother first, she brought understanding, resilience, and kindness into her nursing practice. Her legacy extends far beyond her years at the bedside. She inspired future generations through both her example and her encouragement, most notably her granddaughter, who followed in her footsteps to become a registered nurse. Lucille even accompanied her granddaughter to register for the nursing program, a quiet yet powerful testament to the pride she felt in continuing the tradition of care and service.

Regina Mae Wilder devoted her life to caring for others with the same sweetness, kindness, and gentle spirit that defined her as a person. Born on December 1, 1942, she carried her compassionate nature into a meaningful career in nursing. It was during her time at San Antonio Community Hospital that she not only served patients with skill and dedication but also met her future husband, Frank. He often said she was the best nurse he had ever met—a testament to her clinical excellence, her calm presence, and the sincere love she brought to her work.

Throughout her career, Regina approached nursing with humility and heart. She formed strong bonds with colleagues and patients alike, offering comfort, reassurance, and meticulous care. Her commitment extended beyond the walls of the hospital; she brought the same nurturing warmth into every aspect of her life.

Though proud of her profession, Regina was even more proud of her family, balancing her roles as nurse, spouse, mother, and grandmother with grace. Her gentle touch, steady hands, and instinct for helping others stayed with her long after she stepped away from clinical practice. Nursing was not just a job she once held—it was a reflection of who she was.

Regina leaves behind a legacy of compassion, service, and quiet strength. Those who knew her carry the memory of a nurse who treated every person with dignity and kindness, making a lasting difference in the lives she touched.

We honor the life, service, and legacy of Sharon “Shay” Hargrove, RN,— a nurse, a leader, a mentor, and a servant of compassion.  For nearly twenty‑eight years, Shay dedicated her life to the art and calling of nursing. She stood with patients and families during their most sacred moments, and she gave her heart fully to her colleagues, her community, and the profession she loved.

Shay built an extraordinary nursing career grounded in compassion, determination, and lifelong service. After spending her childhood traveling the world as an Air Force dependent, she graduated from Abilene High School in 1981 and later discovered her calling to nursing while living in Bakersfield, California. She earned her Associate of Science in Nursing from Bakersfield College in 1992, launching a career that would touch countless lives.

Shay began her professional journey in Labor and Delivery at Kern County Hospital, where she developed the foundation of her clinical expertise. In 1994, she expanded her experience by joining Hollywood Presbyterian’s Labor and Delivery team. Despite the demanding commute from Bakersfield to Los Angeles as a single mother, Shay embraced the opportunity for growth and advancement. Her commitment, grit, and love for her son guided every decision.

In 1998, Shay found her true professional home at the newly opened Kaiser Permanente Baldwin Park Medical Center. As part of the inaugural Labor & Delivery team, she played an essential role in building the department from the ground up. Her leadership and exceptional clinical skill led to rapid promotions, first to Supervising Nurse and then to Charge Nurse. Although she eventually stepped down from the Charge position to pursue further education, her impact remained unmistakable.

Shay achieved one of her greatest professional milestones when she was accepted into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of Southern California—her dream school. Balancing full-time work and full-time studies, she graduated in May 2004. Her perseverance and faith were central to this achievement.

Throughout her nearly 28-year career with Kaiser Permanente, Shay held numerous roles across Labor & Delivery and OBGYN, including:

•Team Coordinator, Charge Nurse,  Procedure Nurse, Staff RN, Team Lead, and  Assistant Department Administrator

She was deeply involved in professional governance and advocacy, serving on several committees and holding leadership roles within UNAC, eventually becoming President of the union at Baldwin Park. Known for her energy, connection to others, and ability to make things happen, Shay was widely recognized as a resource, a mentor, and the person who could get anything done..  Her excellence was honored with multiple awards, including:

•Daisy Award (2021), Kaiser Permanente SCAL Regional Spotlight (2021), and  KMCLT Recognition Award (2019)

Beyond her clinical work, Shay gave back to her community through years of volunteer service with the Special Olympics medical staff. A proud USC Trojan, she was a dedicated contributor to the USC Trojan Athletic Fund and a loyal football season ticket holder for fifteen years.  Shay’s nursing career was defined by service, leadership, resilience, and profound compassion. She built departments, shaped teams, mentored colleagues, and cared for families at the most important moments of their lives. Her legacy lives on not only through the patients she helped bring safely into the world, but through every nurse and colleague she inspired along the way. The Nurse Honor Guard stands here today to recognize her commitment and to celebrate the noble legacy she leaves behind.`

Sharon worked at Kaiser Permanente for over 28 years! View services live http://Stsbc.org, click on live.

On Line Zoom Vigil

for Alex Pretti, RN.

Time: Sunday  Feb 1, 2026 6:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

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Alex Jeffrey Pretti (1988 – January 24, 2026)was a 37-year-old United States citizen who lived in the Lyndale neighborhoodof Minneapolis.Pretti was born in Park Ridge, a northwest suburb city of the Chicago metropolitan area, to a family with northern Italian ancestry.He grew up in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and was graduated from the public Preble High School in 2006. He attended the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Minnesota, where he received a bachelor's degree with a major in biology, society and environment in 2011.

Pretti was hired in 2014 as a research assistant in the clinical research program at the Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Health Care System.He had been a registered nurse in Minnesota since 2021.At the time of his death, Pretti held an active nursing license and was an intensive care nurse at the United States Department of Veterans Affairs hospital in Minneapolis. He was a member of the American Federation of Government Employees.

Alex Pretti was shot multiple times by Border Patrol agents near the intersection of 26th Street and Nicollet Avenue in the Whittier neighborhood[45] of Minneapolis.

Jeanette’s life was defined by compassion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to caring for others. For more than twenty years as a Pediatric Registered Nurse, she poured her heart into the care of children and their families. Her gentle presence, steady professionalism, and deep empathy brought comfort in moments of fear and hope in times of uncertainty.

Even after retiring from clinical nursing, Jeanette’s calling never faded. As a simulation specialist and instructor at the College of Southern Nevada, she devoted six more years to shaping future nurses—sharing her knowledge, her warmth, and the lived wisdom of a nurse who truly understood the meaning of care.

Jeanette will be remembered for her kindness, her humor, her strength, and the way she made people feel seen, valued, and understood. Her legacy lives on in her students, her patients, her colleagues, and the family she loved so deeply.

Like Nightingale’s lamp, Jeanette’s light continues to guide us—reminding us that nursing is not just a profession, but a calling of the heart.

Mary Goetz graduated from Marquette University and earned her Registered Nurse license in 1959. Over the course of her long and dedicated career, Mary served with distinction at San Pedro Hospital and Torrance Memorial. Her professional journey reflected both versatility and deep commitment, as she worked in many areas of nursing — including cardiac care, psychiatry, patient education, administration, utilization review, and neonatal care for premature babies.

Mary was a true trailblazer in patient education, particularly in the field of cardiac care. Her work in developing and writing widely used cardiac care pamphlets transformed how patients learned about their own health and treatment. These materials empowered countless patients with knowledge and confidence, and the impact of her work extended far beyond the walls of any single hospital. This accomplishment remained one of Mary’s proudest contributions to the nursing profession.

Beyond her professional achievements, Mary’s joy and strength were multiplied through her lifelong friendships with a close circle of fellow nurses— Shiela, Diane, Cheryl, and Enid. Together, they shared laughter, adventures, unwavering support, and even a few mischievous trips to Las Vegas. Through every season of their careers and lives, this remarkable group of women inspired one another and embodied the camaraderie and resilience that define nursing at its best.

Mary’s devotion to nursing reached far beyond her own work — it touched her family in profound ways. Her love for the profession inspired her daughter, granddaughter, and daughter-in-law to also become nurses, creating a legacy of care that spans generations. One of Mary’s most treasured moments was the day she proudly pinned her granddaughter at her nursing school graduation — a symbolic and deeply meaningful passing of the torch.

Edna devoted 42 years of her life to the profession of nursing as a Licensed Vocational Nurse, serving with skill, compassion, and unwavering dedication. Her healthcare journey began in 1977 at Hillcrest Skilled Nursing Facility, a place of deep personal significance, where she not only began her nursing career but also met the love of her life and future husband of 45 years.

Determined to serve at the bedside, Edna pursued her nursing education at Long Beach City College, passing her LVN boards on November 26, 1979—a milestone she was deeply proud to achieve.

Edna’s professional career continued at Long Beach Community Hospital and later at Long Beach Memorial Medical Center, where she dedicated her life’s work to pediatrics and obstetrics.

Caring for mothers and newborns was not simply her specialty—it was her passion. As an LVN, Edna played a vital role in supporting families during life’s most tender and transformative moments, offering comfort, reassurance, and expert care to countless babies and the parents who loved them.

For Edna, nursing was never just a job—it was her calling. Even beyond the hospital setting, her devotion to caregiving never ended. She became the family nurse, lovingly caring for her husband before his passing, as well as her parents, in-laws, siblings, and extended family, always placing the needs of others before her own.

Selfless and nurturing by nature, Edna embodied the true spirit of vocational nursing—hands-on, patient-centered, and rooted in compassion. Her legacy is one of love, service, and lifelong dedication to healing. Through her work with the youngest and most vulnerable among us, Edna Radoc Acoba leaves behind a legacy that will continue to be felt for generations.

We celebrate the extraordinary life and career of Zelda M. Roberts-Lewis, RN—a nurse whose heart, skill, and dedication made a lasting impact on everyone she touched. Zelda’s story is one of passion and purpose. From the age of 12, she dreamed of becoming a nurse, and that dream became a reality that changed countless lives

Zelda graduated from Los Angeles Southwest College and began her nursing career in 1986 at Linda Vista Hospital. She went on to serve at St. Francis, Kaiser Bellflower, which later became Downey. Her first five years at Kaiser Bellflower were spent in Orthopedics, followed by Telemetry and Cardiac care—areas where her expertise and compassion saved lives every day.

As a Charge Nurse, Zelda was a true leader. She trained and mentored countless nurses, shaping the future of healthcare through her guidance and encouragement. She served as a Union Representative for UNAC, standing strong for her colleagues and advocating for excellence in nursing. Zelda was not only a caregiver—she was a motivator, inspiring her community to pursue nursing and follow in her footsteps.

Her dedication earned her Employee of the Month honors, the prestigious Daisy Award, and appearances in advertisements and training videos. These accolades reflect her commitment to education, advocacy, and patient care. But beyond awards, Zelda’s greatest recognition came from the people whose lives she touched—families who still stop her in public to say thank you for the care she gave their loved ones.

Zelda believed nurses are special people who give compassion and care deeply for their patients. She valued punctuality, sincerity, dependability, and dedication. Her advice to all of us: take care of your health. Zelda lived by this principle and encouraged others to do the same. Her legacy is one of love, service, and inspiration—a light that will continue to shine through the lives she touched and the nurses she inspired.

Today, we honor Zelda not only as a nurse but as a healer, a mentor, and a friend. She saved lives, inspired hearts, and uplifted her community. May her memory live on in every act of care and compassion. Nurses like Zelda remind us that this profession is more than a job—it is a calling, and she answered that call with grace and excellence.

With profound respect and gratitude we honor the life and legacy of Monette Adriano, RN, who dedicated over 40 years to the nursing profession. Nursing was not just her career—it was her calling, her way of life.
Monette graduated from Arellano College in the Philippines in 1971, answering the noble call to serve others through nursing. In 1972, she migrated to Atlanta, Georgia, and later moved to California in 1977, where she continued her lifelong commitment to care. Monette worked at Metropolitan State Hospital in Norwalk, serving patients with compassion and skill until her retirement in 2015.

She was immensely proud of being a nurse and truly loved her profession. Her dedication was evident in every task she performed and every life she touched.
Throughout her decades of service, Monette touched countless lives. She was there in moments of joy and sorrow, in times of hope and healing. Her steady hands and gentle presence brought comfort to patients and families alike. Monette exemplified the very essence of nursing—kindness, courage, and commitment to care.
Monette’s influence extended beyond the bedside. She mentored colleagues, inspired new nurses, and fostered a spirit of teamwork and empathy. Her dedication created ripples of goodness that will continue to touch lives for generations.

Symone Brenae Kimbell, RN, was a bright light in the lives of everyone who knew her. She was a vibrant and compassionate person and an amazing nurse. She graduated from Tuskegee in 2019 with a BSN, and accepted her first assignment at Tulane Hospital in New Orleans. Less than a year later, COVID-19 hit the world, and Symone was on the front lines, caring for patients and facing the pandemic head-on. 

Recently, Symone volunteered not only to brave crossing the picket lines of the Kaiser nurse strike to ensure safe patient care but also stepped out of her specialty to assist in Labor and Delivery. There, she assisted in bringing 20 new lives into the world and made a significant impact on everyone she encountered. She will forever be part of those birth stories and will be remembered by all who worked with her and those she cared for. 

Cynthia Lynn Garrison graduated in 1977 with an associate’s degree in nursing from Antelope Valley Community College. She devoted over 42 years of her life to St. Francis Medical Center in Lynwood, where she began her career in the Intensive Care Unit. Over the years, she became the night shift manager and later served as house supervisor, roles in which she was deeply respected and trusted.

Cynthia was known for her calm leadership, fairness, and unwavering kindness. She always worked the night shift, ensuring that her team felt supported and heard. When managing schedules, she went out of her way to accommodate her colleagues’ needs, and she was often the one called upon to help resolve conflicts with empathy and grace.

She went on medical leave in April 2020 due to COVID-19 precautions and her health history, retiring just a few months shy of her 65th birthday. Though she received service awards recognizing her many years of dedication, her true reward was the love and respect of her coworkers—every one of whom spoke of her with warmth and gratitude.

Cynthia’s legacy is one of compassion, fairness, and quiet strength. She was beloved by all who had the privilege to work alongside her.

We will celebrate the life and legacy of Rebecca Razo, RN. Rebecca was a devoted nurse. Rebecca dedicated 13 years to the Kaiser South Bay Emergency Department, where she was known for her welcoming presence and ability to connect with everyone. As a preceptor and mentor, she guided countless nurses. A strong patient advocate, Rebecca ensured compassionate care and earned recognition with the Kanga Flu Award for her outstanding flu vaccination efforts. Respected and admired by peers, she had an impact beyond the ED, leaving a lasting legacy of professionalism and kindness.

Please plan to arrive at 7:00 am. Park in the Emergency Department Parking lot off Vermont, then walk to the hospital's main entrance. Give yourself time for parking and navigating the campus.  We will huddle and distribute assignments, caps, and capes as needed. 

Today, we gather with heavy hearts and profound gratitude to celebrate the life and legacy of Linda Gonzalez, RN She was a devoted nurse. A loving mother to her two daughters and one son. A cherished colleague and loyal friend. Her presence left an imprint on every heart she touched. The ache of her absence is immeasurable—yet the light of her impact will continue to shine through all who knew her.

Linda was known as a hard worker, dedicated to her Nursing Profession. She started her nursing studies in the Philippines, then traveled to Arkansas, Texas, and California to continue them. She received her California Registered Nurse License in the 1980s.

Linda received many awards for nursing. However, she did not draw attention to herself. Her children recently found the awards in a simple pile.

Her coworkers would describe her as compassionate. She was a natural teacher and held others to the highest level of nursing practice. As seen in her picture, she was joyful and an essential part of the nursing team.

While in California, she worked at various locations, often working 12 to 16 hours a shift. She worked at Lincoln Heights, Kaiser, Mission Community, and her last post was a leader in a Psych unit in Van Nuys. She retired from full-time nursing in 2015. As nurses know, while they may retire, we never stop thinking and acting like nurses.

Tribute will be take place between Buildings 1 and 2 in the Healing Garden,

Jacqueline, a beloved nurse and mother, was tragically lost to a fatal shooting related to domestic violence. She was deeply respected by her peers and known for her compassion, dedication, and unwavering care for her patients.

With heavy hearts and profound gratitude we honor the life and legacy of Jackie Medrano—a devoted nurse, a loving mother to her two sons, a cherished daughter and sister, and a loyal friend and colleague. Jackie’s presence left an indelible mark on every heart she touched. Taken from us far too soon, the ache of her absence is immeasurable, yet the light of her impact will continue to shine through the lives she touched.

Jackie carried a natural grace, defined by patience and kindness. She possessed a rare gift for making people feel seen, valued, and cared for—tuning into their worries, fears, and pain, and easing them with her compassion. Her aura was gentle yet joyful, her laughter infectious, and her spirit full of warmth. Even on the busiest days, Jackie made life lighter simply by being herself.

To her friends and co-workers, Jackie was a bright light—her smile contagious, her laughter unforgettable, and her voice instantly recognizable and deeply loved. She comforted the hurting, encouraged the discouraged, and brought joy to moments that desperately needed it. Her presence was a blessing, and her absence leaves an ache words cannot fill.

Jackie began her healthcare journey 19 years ago as a receptionist for Kaiser in the SOS department, later transferring to Euclid. From the very beginning, she knew her purpose: to help, to care, to heal. Driven by a desire to do more, she returned to school and proudly graduated from Pacific College as a Licensed Vocational Nurse. She worked in SOS Float before finding her true home in urology, where she dedicated the last five years to serving patients with skill, grace, and heart.

She was more than a nurse—she was a mentor, a steady hand, and a calming voice. Jackie trained new LVNs with patience and wisdom, supported her team without hesitation, and was always the first to step in and help. In 2024, she was recognized for ranking in the top 10% in ASQ scores—a reflection of her dedication, skill, and unwavering commitment to her patients.

Jackie never hesitated to help. There was truly nothing she wouldn’t do for her patients or her co-workers. She showed up fully, every day, for her patients and her team. Her “good mornings” were not just greetings—they were rays of sunshine in the rhythm of the day. We will miss those mornings. We will miss her.

As the Nurse Honor Guard, we stand today in deep respect and gratitude for Jackie’s service to the nursing profession. Her earthly work is complete, but her legacy of compassion, excellence, and heartfelt care will live on in all those blessed to know her. Jackie Medrano was taken from us far too soon, but she will remain with us always—in our stories, in our memories, and in the hearts she forever changed.

On September 17th, our community suffered an unimaginable loss with the tragic passing of April Leigh Saez. April was a bright light in so many lives—cherished as a daughter and granddaughter, loved as a sister and partner, treasured as a friend, and admired as a mentor. She had a rare gift for making people smile and laugh no matter the circumstances. Kind, smart, hardworking, and full of life, April touched everyone around her.

April was a beacon of compassion, strength, and dedication in the nursing profession. A proud alumna of Saint Monica Preparatory, she carried her vibrant spirit from the volleyball court and cheer team into the halls of healthcare, where she made an indelible impact.

April began her nursing journey at Santa Monica College, where she excelled academically and served as Class President of the Student Nurse Association. She continued her education at California State University, Fullerton, earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), while simultaneously serving veterans at the VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System. Her roles evolved from Student Nurse Technician to Registered Nurse serving in the Emergency Department, where she was known for her positivity, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to patient care.

April held multiple certifications and was recognized on the Honor Roll. Her leadership and empathy made her a mentor to many and a cherished colleague. She embodied the true spirit of nursing—serving with heart, healing with skill, and uplifting everyone around her.

Her tragic passing left a profound void in the lives of her family, friends, and the healthcare community. April’s legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the example she set.

The Nurse Honor Guard honors April’s unwavering dedication, her compassionate spirit, and the profound impact she made in the lives of her patients and colleagues. Her legacy will continue to inspire those who follow in her footsteps, and her memory will forever be held in the heart of the nursing community.

Edmundine "Eddy" Williams Williamson, RN started her career in 1974 as an LVN, graduating in Orange County, and within a year achieved her RN from Gold Coast College. She worked at Hoag Hospital in the Psych Department as the charge nurse. After that, she went to Saint Joseph in Santa Ana and was the charge nurse. Eddy became interested in the field of biofeedback and opened an office to aid patients in learning the technique. After her retirement, she focused her life on her 8 grandkids and seven great-grandchildren. She was loved by all and will be missed. 

Nurse Honor Guard for Betty Ann Bohner, RN.  She was a long-time manager for the Kaiser Permanente Garden Grove Medical Office Building. Her staff says, "She was the best!" 

Nurse Honor Guard for Nurses who served and passed in Vietnam. The “Wall that Heals” aka a representation of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, will be in visiting Orange, California. This is opening day and there may be many people attending. We will gather at area of the alphabet “N” or at the official entrance.

On behalf of the Nurse Honor Guard of Southern California, we want you to know that we are truly honored to stand before the sacred Wall That Heals Orange. We gather not only to remember the brave souls who served and sacrificed, but to pay special tribute to the nurses—military and civilian—who answered the call with compassion, courage, and unwavering dedication.

These nurses were healers in the midst of conflict, often working under unimaginable conditions. They held hands during final moments, offered comfort through pain, and carried the weight of loss long after the battles ended. We honor their service, their sacrifice, and their legacy. Let us reflect on the spirit of care and commitment that defines the nursing profession—and the profound impact these individuals had on the lives of countless soldiers and families.

Thank you for joining us in remembrance

1st Lt. Sharon Ann Lane of Canton, Ohio

Died on June 8, 1969. Killed by a rocket explosion while caring for patients at the 312th Evacuation Hospital.

2nd Lt. Pamela Dorothy Donovan of Brighton, Massachusetts

Died on July 8, 1968. Died of pneumonia while serving at the 85th Evacuation Hospital in Qui Nhon.

Lt. Col. Annie Ruth Graham of Efland, North Carolina

Died on August 14, 1968. Suffered a stroke while serving as Chief Nurse at the 91st Evacuation Hospital in Tuy

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Capt. Mary Therese Klinker of Lafayette, Indiana

Died on April 4, 1975. Killed in the crash of a Babylift flight while escorting orphans to safety.

2nd Lt. Carol Ann Elizabeth Drazba of Dunmore, Pennsylvania

Died on February 18, 1966. Killed in a helicopter crash near Saigon.

2nd Lt. Elizabeth Ann Jones of Allendale, South Carolina

Died on February 18, 1966. Killed in a helicopter crash near Saigon as 2LT Drazba.

Capt. Eleanor Grace Alexander of Rivervale, New Jersey

Died on November 30, 1967. Killed in a plane crash while returning from Pleiku.

1st Lt. Hedwig Diane Orlowski of Detroit, Michigan

Died on November 30, 1967. Killed in plane crash.

She liked to be called Lita and graduated in 1975. She had an active practice for 41 years.

This ceremony is taking place in Colton, California, and the San Bernardino Nurse Honor Guard is seeking assistance with the event.

We gather here today to honor and celebrate the life and nursing career of Lucy Gutierrez, LVN - a nurse, a daughter, a sister, a coworker, and a friend. Lucy was a proud graduate of Concord College, earning her LVN in 2023. From the moment she stepped into the world of nursing, she brought with her a heart full of compassion, a joyful spirit, and a deep desire to help others. She began her career at the Kaiser Flu Clinic, and in a short time, her dedication and warmth led her to a role in Pediatrics at Kaiser Pediatric and Pediatric Subspecialty at Tustin Ranch. There, she also cross-trained in Pediatric Gastroenterology and Rheumatology, expanding her skills to care for patients and becoming a cherished member of her team. Though early in her career, Lucy made a lasting mark.

She was known for her joyful spirit, her quiet humor, and her ability to make children feel comfortable and safe. One of her special gifts was drawing cartoon characters on exam table covers— turning what could be a stressful visit into a happy memory for her young patients. Her coworkers admired her eagerness to help in every way possible—from restocking exam rooms to assisting with scheduling. Lucy carried herself with professionalism, loyalty, and kindness, and she was loved deeply by both her colleagues and her patients.

Lucy found joy in the small things that made life meaningful: sharing laughter, spending time with her family and her boyfriend Chris. She loved coffee, anime, and the color blue. She brought light and cheer wherever she went, whether at work or at home. She even joined in office celebrations and dressed up as a minion for Halloween 2024, reminding everyone that joy and togetherness were as important in healing as medicine itself.

Lucy was proud of her achievements, especially graduating from nursing school, and she was actively working toward her BSN, a goal she was determined to reach. Her passion for nursing inspired her younger sister to follow in her footsteps and encouraged coworkers to grow and carry forward the values she lived by.

Cynthia worked at Kaiser South Bay for 35 years, retiring just last year. She inspired her family, including her daughter and son-in-law, who both became nurses. 

The Nurse Honor Guard Tribute will be part of a bigger ceremony to honor our health care team members who have passed away. There are a number of Nurses who will be honored with the Tribute.

The Memorial will be conducted at the Kaiser Permanente Downey Hospital grounds.

Please plan to arrive at 10:00 am. We will huddle and distribute assignments, caps, and capes as needed. The ceremony will begin at 10:30 am. Wear white for the ceremony, a cape, and a cap. If you don't have a cape or cap, loaners will be available for use. If your plans change or you need assistance, please text 714-309-2171. Thank you!