Genoveva "Nanay Bebang" Atendido

Nanay Bebang's Story

A strong independent and dedicated wife, house maker, an amazing cook, aunt, friend, loving and caring nanay (mom) and a doting Lola (grandma). She loved going on a cruise, cooking intricate and authentic Filipino dishes and just taking care of her loved ones. For many of us she was an important figure in our lives, and we will be forever grateful.

Early beginnings
Born on the 24th day of December 1943, evening before Christmas. Nanay Bebang, as we fondly call our dearest mother Genoveva, grew up in a small town, Angat in Bulacan, Philippines. She spent more than half her life in a laid-back Barrio, Sulucan with her family. It was a life of simplicity, honed with passion and dedication.

Married Life
In January of 1970, she married Fabian, her loving husband and the father of her four children, Nelson, Elmer, Loida and Catherine. She lived a simple and quiet life, spending most of her time taking care of her children. Her favorite day of the week is Sunday, it's church day and that was when we just often spent the whole day together. We spent hours over the dining table at lunch savoring the meal she had prepared for us while listening to either Elvis Presley, Matt Monroe or Frank Sinatra songs from our transistor radio. It was a picture of a humble yet happy family.
But life can take a turn towards the unexpected, in one of the worst ways. May 1982, just a few years after marriage, she lost her husband, our dad and left her with four young children. Although she was not ready for a huge responsibility of being a single parent and uncertain of what lies ahead, she defied all odds and brave the storm. She was not sure of how she would raise us, but even with all the challenges, she did a really great job. We struggled financially but with the help of relatives and friends, Nanay was able to raise us well and provide for our needs. Like what we told her countless times, her love and provision for us gave us more than what we needed, we couldn't ask for more. We grew up complete and did not even feel like she raised us single handed. Despite it all, she did not get tired of caring and loving, our children grew up having her around us.

The last few months had been really tough on her. Her health slowly deteriorated, and the pandemic just made it worse. But before her last hospitalization, she bid her farewell to us individually. She expressed how much she loved us. She spoke to each and everyone of us and expressed what's inside her heart. We were able to tell her everything we want to tell her as well, that was really special. Not everyone was given a chance like that before they depart.

Heaven sent her angels to guide and guard her on her journey to the kingdom of God. Despite her multiple organ failure, without any medical interventions, she was comfortable at home. She passed very peacefully without struggles and pains. She was truly blessed. She left a huge space in our hearts and a heavy weight of sorrow. But we know, she's happier now, reunited with Tatay.

This year's Christmas eve will be totally different. Unlike the past when we gathered together sharing the feast you have prepared celebrating your birthday, it will still be a celebration of your life but without you.

Rest well now Nanay, we will forever miss you. Do not worry about us because you raised us very well. We love you very much. Thank you for being our strength and our guiding light. Thank you for everything you have done for us. May you enjoy eternal happiness in the kingdom of God.

To view Nanay's tribute video, follow this link and click on the Tribute Video icon: https://heritageoaksmemorialchapel.tributes.com/obituary/show/Genoveva-Nanay-Bebang-Atendido-108500154.