An Eldest Son’s Loving Tribute to His Beloved Mother
MUTCs Foreword:
The eulogy authored and delivered by Leonides R. Cajucom (the eldest of the 11 siblings) during the wake was a heartfelt tribute to his beloved mother, Nanay Gloria, capturing the essence of her life with grace and sincerity. Through his carefully chosen words, he painted a vivid picture of a woman who touched many lives both personally and professionally. His reflections on her nurturing spirit, wisdom, and selflessness in their family showcased the deep love and respect she earned as a mother. Moreover, he briefly spoke of her professional accomplishments, highlighting how her dedication and passion left a lasting impact on those she worked with and served. His words expressed not only his admiration but also a sense of gratitude for the life she led and the lessons she imparted to her children and those beyond her family. It was a powerful reminder of how one person’s life, lived with purpose and compassion, can leave an indelible mark on Earth.
The Eulogy
We gather here today with heavy hearts but also with deep gratitude and profound respect as we celebrate the life of a remarkable woman, a loving mother, a dedicated educator, and a pillar of our community who left us on August 26, 2024 at the age of 95.
Our beloved mother was a force of nature, a true testament to grace and strength. Her life was a beautiful tapestry woven with the threads of love, sacrifice and dedication. She was not just the heart of our family but also a beacon of wisdom and compassion to all who knew her.
Raising eleven children is no small feat and doing so with the love, patience, and strength she displayed is nothing short of extraordinary. Her children were her greatest pride and her home was a sanctuary where laughter and learning thrived. She imparted not only the values of kindness, resilience, and integrity but also the importance of education.
For forty four years, she devoted herself to teaching at Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (where she became College Dean). Her impact on the countless students she guided and mentored cannot be measured in mere numbers. She inspired curiosity, nurtured potential and left an indelible mark on the lives of many. Her passion for education was matched only by her dedication, and in both realms, she excelled with a rare and admirable grace.
Some years ago, she was honored as Mother of the Year in Cabanatuan City. It was a recognition of what we all knew to be true: that her devotion to her family and her community was exceptional. Her influence reached beyond the walls of her home and classroom, shaping the lives of many with her kindness and commitment.
To her children, she was a guiding star, always there with a listening ear, a comforting word, and a gentle but firm hand. To her students and colleagues, she was a mentor and a friend. To all of us, she was a source of inspiration, a woman who showed us the power of love and dedication.
As we remember her today, let us celebrate the legacy she leaves behind — a legacy not of grand gestures but of quiet love and an enduring commitment to making the world a better place. Her life was a beautiful example of how one person’s influence can improve through generations and her spirit will continue to guide us in all that we do.
Though our hearts are heavy with the sorrow of her passing, we find solace in the rich and full life she lived. Her memory will live on in the values she taught us, and the countless lives she touched.
Thank you Nanay for everything. We are forever grateful for your love, your wisdom, and your strength. Rest in peace knowing your legacy will continue to inspire and guide us everyday.
Thank you.
About the Author:
Leonides Rivera Cajucom (or “Ned” to his parents, or Kuyang to his si:blings), is the eldest of eleven siblings, born to Norberto and Gloria, both now deceased. He graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Araullo University and later earned a Master’s degree in English from De La Salle University. With over thirty years of teaching experience at both the college and university levels, Ned has established himself as a distinguished educator. He was also awarded a Certificate of Advanced Studies in English for Specific Purposes from the Institute of Lancaster in the United Kingdom.
