Benita P. Manuel's Obituary
In Loving Memory of Benita Remigio Puyaoan Manuel
March 21, 1934 – April 21, 2026
With deep love and gratitude, we celebrate the life of our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, Benita Remigio Puyaoan Manuel, who was blessed with 92 wonderful years.
Benita was born on March 21, 1934, in Baay, Batac, Ilocos Norte, Philippines, to Ambrocio Puyaoan and Maria Remigio Puyaoan. She grew up alongside her siblings and carried throughout her life the values of faith, family, humility, resilience, and kindness.
Benita is survived by her brothers, Onofre Puyaoan, Villamor Puyaoan, and Abraham Puyaoan. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Filipinas Peralta and Lydia Valdez, whom she loved dearly and whose memories remained close to her heart throughout her life.
At the age of 17, she met the love of her life, Geronimo Gaba Manuel, while helping her aunt with caregiving duties in Banna, Ilocos Norte. Their love story led to marriage in September 1956 and to a lifetime of devotion to one another and their growing family.
Together, they were blessed with seven children, two of whom passed away in infancy, and built a legacy that now includes 11 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Family was the center of Benita’s world, and she dedicated her life to caring for those she loved.
In November 1973, Benita immigrated to Honolulu, Hawaii, with her children to reunite with her husband and begin a new chapter in their lives. She worked for Del Monte Fresh Fruit for many years, where she was known for her dedication and strong work ethic, before retiring in 1996.
Those who knew Benita will remember her warm heart, gentle spirit, and unwavering faith. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures—watching her favorite daytime dramas, Hallmark movies, Wheel of Fortune, The Price Is Right, and classic Richard Gere films such as An Officer and a Gentleman and Pretty Woman. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she discovered Korean dramas and especially loved Crash Landing on You, which became a special bond she shared with her granddaughters.
Benita had a remarkable gift for making people feel loved and welcomed. Whether through a home-cooked meal, thoughtful advice, sharing Korean dramas and romantic movies, or simply listening, she offered comfort, encouragement, and support to everyone around her.
For many years, daily phone calls and FaceTime conversations with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren became treasured moments. Even the simplest conversations—asking what she was doing, what she had eaten, or how her day was going—became cherished memories that reflected the love and connection she shared with her family.
Her final years were filled with the presence of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who lovingly cared for her and ensured she was always surrounded by family. Their devotion allowed her to remain in the comfort of those she loved most.
On the morning of April 21, 2026, Benita’s earthly journey came to a peaceful close as she passed away surrounded by the love of her family. Like a beautiful sunset, she departed this life with grace, leaving behind a family strengthened by her example and united by her love. While we mourn her loss, we also celebrate a life beautifully lived and a legacy that will continue through generations.
Her life was a blessing. Her memory is a treasure. She is loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.
Rest in peace, Mom. Your love will remain in our hearts forever.
Wake Service on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at Mauka Chapel. Visitation at 5:30 pm, and Service at 6:30 pm.
Funeral Service on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at Mauka Chapel, Visitation at 9:30 am and Service at 10:30 am.
Burial to follow at 1:00 pm at Mililani Memorial Park Cemetery.
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