“"No one has greater love than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends." – John 15:13
Life story
Our beloved Jomarie Grace Lao Calasanz was a daughter, sister, niece, cousin, friend, and a bright light in every community she touched. She lived with a faith-filled heart, a generous spirit, and a fierce love for the people around her. Her laughter, her voice, her service, and her unwavering kindness made her someone people naturally gravitated toward. She was magnetic in the most genuine way.
On May 25, 2025, during a family trip to Sequoia National Park, Jomarie acted with the same courage and selflessness she had shown her entire life. When her older sister Joanne was swept into the river’s current, Jomarie an experienced swimmer immediately rushed to help. In her final moments, she embodied pure love and bravery. She was a hero.
After months of searching, Jomarie was found and brought home, allowing our family and community to honor her life with the dignity, beauty, and love she deserved. Her memorial services were filled with the people she uplifted, family, friends, coworkers, church members, and the Filipino community she proudly supported.
Jomarie’s legacy is one of compassion, faith, and service. She gave without hesitation, loved without limits, and lived with a joy that radiated outward. Though her time with us was far too short, the impact she made will continue to echo through every life she touched.
We remember her not only for the tragedy of her passing, but for the fullness of her life, her warmth, her humor, her generosity, her strength, and the way she made people feel seen and loved.
Jomarie, I’ve been thinking a lot about the years we spent together in school the hallways, the group projects, the inside jokes that only made sense to us. You were the kind of friend who made long days feel lighter. You always had a smile ready, always found a way to make people feel included, and you never hesitated to help someone who needed it.
I’ll always remember your kindness, your humor, and the way you could turn even the most boring class into something fun. You left a mark on so many of us without even trying. Thank you for the memories, the laughter, and the warmth you brought into our lives. We miss you, and we’ll carry you with us always.
Jomarie,
Though I didn't get the chance to know you as deeply as I wanted, I feel like I've come to know your heart through Christian-through the stories, the pride in his voice when he spoke about you, and the traits he says he carries because of you. You were strong-willed, creative, and full of life.
When you set your heart on something, you made it happen.
You loved deeply and gave so much of
yourself to others, especially your family. The way you acted in that moment, putting your sister's safety first, speaks volumes about who you were. It was brave, and it was full of love. You truly are a hero.
You would have been an amazing sister-in-law. I carry that wish and that sadness, but also the honor of holding your memory close.
Mahal kita, Jomarie. We will carry you in our hearts, always.
Working with you was always a bright spot in my day. You were the kind of person who lifted the whole team just by showing up. You cared deeply, you worked hard, and you always found a way to make people laugh. I’m grateful I got to know you, even for a short time. You’ll always be remembered here.
your family loved you so deeply, and it showed in everything you did. You carried their values with you. kindness, courage, and a heart for others. I watched you grow into someone strong, compassionate, and full of purpose. Losing you has left a space that can’t be filled, but your spirit lives on in everyone who knew you
Jomarie, the way you lived and the way you left this world both showed your courage. You acted out of love, the same way you always did. Your bravery, your heart, your instinct to protect others.. that’s who you were. You’ll always be remembered as someone who loved fiercely and selflessly.
Jomarie was such a light in the community. Her music much like her kindness echoed everywhere she went. I am so sad that we lost her so young. She will forever be missed.
