Augusto Dayrit

Augusto Dayrit, affectionately known to many as “Mama” and to others as “Ogie,” passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a family, circle of friends, and community whose lives were deeply shaped by his love, sacrifice, generosity, and strength.

Augusto was a devoted father of three: George, commonly known to relatives and friends in the Philippines as Javier; Antoniette “May” Dayrit; and Angelica “Lanie” Dayrit. He was also the loving husband of Asuncion “Susie” Dayrit, who passed away in 2016. Their lives together were built on sacrifice, perseverance, family, and faith, and his family takes comfort in knowing they are now reunited.

Born and raised in Caloocan City, Philippines, Augusto never forgot his hometown or the people who shaped him. In his younger years, he was active in Philippine politics and served as a campaign manager in the 1970s for a mayoral campaign in Caloocan City. Even then, he was someone people trusted — a man who understood community, loyalty, and the importance of helping others move toward a better future.

That same spirit carried into his own life when he made the difficult decision to come to the United States. Like many immigrants, Augusto endured the pain of separation from his family, spending years away from his wife and children so he could create opportunities for them. His children remember the sacrifices he made, including one treasured memory from the 1970s, on the last day before he left for the United States. He spent the day with his family at Harrison Plaza, where they watched The Sound of Music in the theater. It may have seemed like a simple day together, but it became a lifelong memory — a reminder of a father’s love before distance and sacrifice became part of the family’s journey.

Through hard work and determination, Augusto built a life in the United States. He worked as a machinist for Southern Pacific Railroad, providing for his family and helping lay the foundation for their future. He also supported his wife, Susie, as she pursued her path to becoming a nurse, standing beside her as they worked together to build a better life for their children.

But Augusto’s generosity did not stop with his immediate family. He helped countless relatives and loved ones, both in the Philippines and in the United States. Whether by sending help from afar, offering guidance, opening his home, or helping relatives come to America, Augusto played a major role in changing the course of many lives. For many in his extended family, his efforts became part of the reason they were able to seek a better life. His legacy lives not only in his children, but in the many families whose futures were made brighter because he cared enough to help.

In retirement, Augusto found joy in going back and forth to the Philippines, where he loved being around friends, reconnecting with familiar places, and enjoying the warmth of the community he never stopped loving. He carried both countries in his heart — the Philippines, where his roots began, and the United States, where his sacrifices helped his family grow.

To those who knew him in the Philippines, “Mama” was more than a nickname. It became part of who he was to people: someone dependable, gentle, loyal, and always present when others needed him. A recent tribute from his friend, Congressman Egay Erice, captured this beautifully:

“Some people pass into our lives and leave memories that never fade. Augusto ‘Mama’ Dayrit is one of them.”

Congressman Erice remembered Mama for his favorite white outfit, which became part of his familiar image and seemed to reflect his gentle presence, humility, and kind heart. He described Mama as more than a friend — as a father, counselor, companion, dependable person in times of need, and a source of strength, guidance, and inspiration. His words spoke to the many lives Augusto touched outside his own family and to the lasting impression he left on those who knew him.

That remembrance is a reflection of the man Augusto was. He had a way of becoming family to people. He gave advice, offered help, stood by his friends, and made others feel supported. He lived with loyalty and kindness, and his presence brought comfort to many.

Augusto will be remembered for his strength, humility, humor, generosity, and devotion to family. He was a man who did not always need many words to show love; his actions spoke for him. He worked hard, gave freely, helped others rise, and remained connected to the people and places he loved. His life was a bridge between generations, between countries, and between dreams and reality.

He leaves behind his children, George “Javier” Dayrit, Antoniette “May” Dayrit, and Angelica “Lanie” Dayrit; along with relatives, friends, and many loved ones whose lives were touched by him. He is reunited with his beloved wife, Asuncion “Susie” Dayrit.

Though his passing was unexpected, the impact of his life is immeasurable. Augusto “Ogie” Dayrit — “Mama” to so many — will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever honored by the family he sacrificed for, the friends he stood beside, and the many lives he helped change.

Thank you, Mama, for your loyal and strong friendship, your guidance, your sacrifices, and your love. You will never be forgotten. You will continue to live on in our memories and in the hearts you shaped and loved.