Erlinda Mendi Mangilaya's Obituary
Erlinda Mendi Mangilaya (also lovingly nicknamed as “Leth”) passed away peacefully at home on September 4, 2023 surrounded by her loved ones. The San Francisco clouds lifted and she was ushered into the heavens by friends and relatives who had once walked on God’s earth.
Leth was born on August 14, 1950 in Quezon City, Philippines. She was preceded in death by her father, Catalino Bansuelo Mangilaya, mother, Celedonia Abon Mendi Mangilaya and her baby brother, Catalino Mangilaya Jr. She will be missed by her surviving siblings, Nilda Ilumin, Yvonne Mangilaya, Sony Quintero, and Nenita Bell. Leth is survived by her devoted daughter, Frances Diane (20) and her many nieces and nephews. Leth graduated from Arellano High School, and went on to receive her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration Management from the University of the East in Manila City. Leth immigrated to the United States in 1982 and has been a resident of San Francisco for over 40 years. While she worked at many jobs – she retired from her position as a Taxpayer Advocate Representative of the Internal Revenue Service.
Leth was a wonderful example to follow for anyone who needs help or inspiration. She was always a constant figure to her nieces and nephews and her generosity was unquestionable. She lived in a boisterous, noisy household filled with children and pets and the loud sounds blaring from the television. A quiet house was not an ideal one and she would not have it any other way other than the booming sound of a lively and entertaining family home. Throughout her lifetime, Leth was a master cook in the kitchen. Each of us had a favorite of her dishes and we only wish that we had the opportunity to share more of her recipes so she will always be remembered in the kitchen. During her time with Diane in the Philippines, she found some quiet time gardening and enjoying evening walks. She loved animals and she adored her dogs. She, like many pet owners, are a different breed of people. They are generous, sentimental and full of spirit, and she conveyed those characteristics to her faithful canines: Thunder, Blackie, Leila, and Bantay.
Leth received greater blessings later in life and became a doting mother to Diane at the age of 53 – a courageous undertaking and one of the best decisions she had ever made. She dedicated her very being in becoming the constant love and support to Diane and in return Leth lived a life of purpose and reached a happiness only a child to a mother can achieve – pure bliss. Motherhood was a great responsibility but what she did not realize is that she bestowed upon us – the family – a wonderful, sweet and intelligent young lady. We are the ones that is truly blessed.
All of whom have loved her dearly will never forget her smile, her charm, her graceful nature and her abundant generosity. Leth will be sorely missed.
What’s your fondest memory of Erlinda?
What’s a lesson you learned from Erlinda?
Share a story where Erlinda's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Erlinda you’ll never forget.
How did Erlinda make you smile?