Celerina Hayes

Celerina “Terri” Madamba Hayes, born on March 18, 1940, in San Nicholas, Ilocos Norte, Philippines, to Benjamin Z. Madamba and Procopia Bondoc, passed away peacefully on September 9, 2023. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend who touched the lives of many. Her memory will forever be cherished by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Celerina's early years were spent in the picturesque town of San Nicholas, alongside her parents and younger siblings, Waldo and Didi. She embarked on her musical journey at a tender age, mastering classical sonatas and sheet music on the piano. She received her primary education at San Nicolas Central Elementary School, graduating as the Salutatorian in 6th grade.  She continued her education at Ilocos Norte High School in Laoag City, which marked the beginning of her remarkable journey. Celerina's passion for music led her to briefly study at the University of the Philippines Conservatory of Music.

At the age of 17, Celerina was sponsored and began a courageous journey all by herself across the Pacific Ocean, aboard the USS President Wilson, to start a new life in America.  Aboard the ship, she enchanted passengers with her beautiful classical piano melodies, making time at sea more delightful.  She faced the challenges of the 1950s as a young woman in a foreign land with remarkable strength and determination. Her tenacity and resilience became defining qualities throughout her life. Although she had dreams of becoming a master pianist, she chose to pursue a business degree in accounting and eventually graduated from California State University Los Angeles.

During this period, she met Bonifacio Fadollone, and the two were united in marriage.  Their union welcomed a son, Michael, into the world. While pursuing her career as a certified public accountant and raising a son, she furthered her education by earning a master's degree through unwavering determination and hard work. Celerina went on to have a successful career in corporate tax, contributing her talents to prestigious organizations such as Security Pacific Bank, ARCO, Amgen and PG&E where her brilliance shone brightly.

In her golden years, Celerina found joy in playing the piano again, attending concerts at Los Angeles Philharmonic, exercising and walking around the Rose Bowl, strolling on the white sandy beach of Mauna Kea, savoring breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, relishing a glass of wine with friends and family while sharing stories and laughter, indulging her passion for tennis, testing her culinary artistry on friends and family, traveling around the world, and generously volunteering her time and talents at Huntington Hospital and Assistance League. However, her greatest source of joy came from her beloved grandchildren, Justin, Jordan, and Jonathan.

Celerina is survived by her loving son, Michael, her caring daughter-in-law, Edna, her adoring grandchildren, Justin, Jordan, and Jonathan, and her dear siblings, Waldo and Didi. She was preceded in death by her mother and father, who await her with open arms.

A memorial service will be held on September 27 9:00am at Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills. All friends and family are invited to attend to celebrate the life of Celerina “Terri” Madamba Hayes and share their cherished memories.

Celerina's memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her, and her legacy of strength, determination, and kindness will inspire generations to come. May she rest in peace.