Emelita G. Chua

Emelita “Met” Gannaban Chua, 71 years of age, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 27, 2025, at Mills-Peninsula Hospital in Burlingame, California.

Met was born on September 27, 1954, in Manila, Philippine,s to the late Cezar Bergenholtz Gannaban and Alicia Eustaquio Inting. She had one brother, two sisters, and two half sisters – three of whom have preceded her in death.

Met married Ramon Rabang Chua on April 26, 1976, in the Philippines, and soon after migrated to the United States on August 31, 1976. Together, they were blessed with five children (Aimee Rae, Ceazar Henry, Monette Christine, Jean Roxanne, and Cheryl Lynne) and nine grandchildren (Shane Anthony, Aalani Rielle, Julian Kristian, Jordan Andrew, Adam Jeremiah, Jacob Liam, Haley Reese, Avari Lynne, and Matthew Caesar).

Met was a woman whose life radiated warmth, compassion, and unwavering faith. Known lovingly as Mom and Mama, she was the heart of her family, a devoted wife, a mother to five children, and a grandmother whose gentle presence shaped generations.

Met carried with her the resilience, strength, and deep family values rooted in her upbringing. After moving to the United States, she built a life defi ned by acts of service, hard work, and unconditional love. She spent many years working at DHL, but made the decision to pour her heart into her craft as a seamstress. Met was gifted by God with hands that could customize designs for occasions from proms to weddings. She was the type of woman who wanted to give and personalize those memorable moments to her clients without reciprocity.

Above all, Met was a woman of God. Her life was anchored in prayer, faith, and a deep relationship with the Lord. She walked fully in her purpose, using her spiritual gifts to uplift, comfort, and pour love into everyone she encountered. Her faith was not only seen, it was felt.

Her selflessness shaped every part of her journey. She cared for her parents until their final days, honoring them with unwavering devotion. Her home was a safe haven, always open to family members who needed safety, comfort, or a place to reset. When her son survived a life-threatening accident, she poured her heart into his welfare and became his caregiver – an exemplification of extraordinary strength and unshakable love.

Met also brought joy wherever she went. Her smile lit up every room, her laughter lifted spirits, and her singing and dancing brought life to every gathering. She was the light in the middle of the noise, the peace in the storm, and the joy that reminded everyone of God’s goodness.

She leaves behind a legacy of faith, compassion, generosity, and purpose. Though her earthly journey has ended, her spirit continues to live through the hearts she shaped and the love she poured so freely.