Esmeralda Vila Ramento
May 16, 1945 - May 23, 2023
Obituary
Esmeralda ‘Merly’ Vila Ramento died quietly in her home surrounded by loved ones on May 23, 2023
at the age of 78 after a courageous battle with an illness for over a year.
Merly was born to Julio and Florencia Vila on May 16, 1945, and was raised in Lingayen, Pangasinan, Philippines. As the oldest of 12 children, Merly responsibly and lovingly took care of her younger siblings, at times acting as a second mother when they were sick. Merly had willingly forgone higher education and started working as a secretary in a lumber company at a young age to assist the family financially. Her love and generosity extended to her nieces and nephews whom she helped achieve their career goals. Merly’s aspirations were to see her family overcome financial hardships and to remain united in love.
In 1985, Merly married the late Lawrence Ramento and shortly migrated to Waianae, Hawaii, where she lived a simple life as a full-time homemaker. She was a very loving wife and dedicated her time taking care of her husband until his death.
In Waianae, Merly was known for her love of gardening and making her home paradise-like. She liked making things neat and orderly. She was known for her generosity by sharing vegetables, such as kalamansi, malunggay, and alokon with families and friends.
Merly was a Jehovah’s Witness since she was baptized on March 17, 1967. She regularly attended the meetings, had personal study of the Bible, and participated in preaching the good news to others. The simplest pleasure in life brought great joy to Merly.
During her last years, Merly enjoyed spending quality time with family, friends, and spiritual family. She loved singing karaoke songs with friends and family. She will be remembered for being a loving, caring, enduring, and a cheerful person.
Merly is survived by her sisters Estrella, Rebecca and husband Charlie, Minda and husband Alex, Jemima and husband Solomon, Jinkee and husband Marcian Jr., and Florence and husband Ezra; brothers Benjar and wife Julie, Danilo and wife Avelina, Arnold and wife Shirley, and Reynaldo and wife Leah; and 28 nephews and nieces and 30 grandchildren. Merly is predeceased by husband Lawrence Ramento, parents Julio and Florencia Vila, and brother Dionisio Vila.
We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude for your prayers and sympathies. Your comforting messages and acts of kindness give us strength during this difficult time. We are forever grateful for your love and support.
