Alejandra Paez

Alejandra Paez, affectionately known as "Aling," passed away peacefully at home on November , 2024, at the age of 89. Born on August 12, 1935, in Passi, Iloilo, Philippines, Aling's journey was marked by her unwavering love for family, a passion for cooking, and an endearing relationship with animals and nature.

A nurturing mother, Aling dedicated her life to raising her three children: Ellen Banez Linaac, Barbara Paez Banez Esq. & Dr. Monico Peter Banez. Her pride in them was immeasurable, and she played a pivotal role in their accomplishments, raising a CPA, a lawyer, and a doctor all on her own, while working multiple jobs to provide for her family. This ability to juggle her responsibilities exemplified her strong work ethic and dedication to her children.

Aling is also a wonderful grandmother to Andrew Linaac & Melissa Brooke Linaac.  She doted these children as well as the children of her nieces and nephews.  She loved these children so much and spoiled them with all her heart.

Aling's home was a welcoming space, where her love for cooking shone through. She was known for her culinary skills, with her dishes always being the highlight of any gathering, often being the first ones to disappear. Those who enjoyed her cooking knew that each meal was infused with love and joy. Her warmth extended beyond her family, as she loved to host anyone who stepped through her door, treating them like family.

She found joy in the simple pleasures of life, whether it was caring for her beloved plants, ensuring they were well-watered and tended to, or sharing laughter and stories with her sisters, Arsenia Bajarias and Nory Gainaru, during their shared weekends. Aling's personality was characterized by her genuine warmth, understanding nature, and the ability to make anyone feel welcome.

In addition to her family, Aling cherished her connections with various relatives, including her cousins Ana Cerbania, Emma Cerbania Lumanglas and her numerous nieces (Tess Lamasan, Mara Gainaru, Sarah Gainaru & Cindy Bajarias) and nephews (Alex Bajarias, Eric Bajarias & JR Lamasan), who brought her great joy and pride. She was a dedicated professional, having worked as a certified nursing assistant where her compassionate care for patients was akin to that of a loving family member.  She was welcoming to all friends of the family including pets and even stuffed animals (Archie).  She loved Fluffy & Alfie who both are waiting for her at the rainbow bridge.  She is missed so much by our tuxedo cat, Toulouse, that she has not been eating well since 11/28/2024 and only sleeps on her bed.

Aling's legacy will be honored in the upcoming services. A visitation will be held at Forest Lawn - Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles, CA, on December 19, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at Forest Lawn - Hollywood Hills - Old North Church on December 21, 2024, starting at 2:30 PM.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Concordia Cerbania and Demetrio Paez, as well as her brothers, Pepito Paez and Pablito Paez & her sister, Auntie Inday.  As we remember Alejandra Paez, we celebrate the life of a woman whose love, strength, and resilience will forever shine brightly in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.