Blesilda "Bessie" Llamas

Blesilda Landicho Llamas, Bessie, as she was lovingly known, was born on April 22, 1961, in Manila, Philippines, and peacefully joined our Creator on February 2, 2025, at Providence St. Jude Medical Center in Fullerton, California after bravely facing a long battle with kidney cancer.

Bessie was more than just a presence in our lives; she was a radiant beacon of love, kindness, and unwavering faith. Her journey was a testament to the power of compassion, leaving an imprint of generosity on the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

Growing up in Lipa City, Batangas, Bessie’s brilliance shone early. She graduated from the University of Santo Tomas with a degree in Pharmacy, a path that led her to a pharmaceutical laboratory and, more importantly, to her beloved husband, Bobby. Together, they built a family filled with love and laughter, raising three cherished children: Ira, Chamie, and Bojok. Her family was her universe, and she poured her heart and soul into nurturing and supporting them. From school events to family gatherings, Bessie was always there, her warmth and thoughtfulness making every moment precious. She was the anchor, the confidante, the unwavering source of love and wisdom that shaped her family.

Bessie was a true superwoman, gracefully balancing the many facets of her life. She was a devoted daughter to her parents, Goring and Letty, showering them with the same boundless love they had given her. Despite the challenges of distance, she tirelessly traveled between the Philippines and the United States, ensuring her role as a mother was never compromised. Even as her health began to wane, she continued these journeys, a testament to her unwavering dedication to her family. There was nothing she wouldn’t do for those she loved.

Beyond her immediate family, Bessie was the heart of her extended family and circle of friends. She possessed a rare gift for bringing people together, her warm and joyful spirit making everyone feel welcome and cherished. Her laughter was infectious, her presence a light that illuminated every gathering. Her cousins affectionately called her the "Speaker of the House," a perfect reflection of her ability to connect with and uplift everyone she met. She took the time to truly know each person, leaving behind a trail of cherished friendships wherever she went.

Bessie’s faith was the bedrock of her life. In her later years, she dedicated herself to serving the Lord, attending daily mass, actively participating in church activities, and living her faith through acts of kindness and generosity. She also became a businesswoman to provide for her family, yet she always found time to help those in need, participating in charity events and offering assistance as best as she could.

Words cannot express the depth of our admiration for the incredible woman she was. We can only hope to emulate even a fraction of the goodness she embodied in all the roles she played. But of all the hats she wore, the one we will forever treasure is “Mommy Bessie.” She gave us life, and in her honor, we will continue to build our own, carrying her love with us always.

Mommy Bessie’s lighthearted spirit, selflessness, deep faith, and unwavering commitment to love and kindness will forever be etched in our memories. Her legacy of compassion, strength, and resilience will live on in the hearts of all who were touched by her grace.