Epifania Difuntorum Lachica

Epifania Difuntorum Lachica, lovingly known as Eppie or Aring, was born on April 7, 1938, in Agoo, La Union, Philippines, and passed away peacefully on December 21, 2025, in Los Angeles, California. She dedicated over 20 years of her life as a government employee at the Land Transportation Office in Quezon City.

Eppie was a shining light in the lives of her family and friends, known for her kind and welcoming personality that made everyone around her feel at ease. Her humor was infectious, and she had an uncanny ability to bring joy to any gathering. She cherished time spent cooking her famous Ilocano dish “dinengdeng”, and had a playful preference for trading steak for any kind of fish and fresh vegetables. When dining out, she had a particular fondness for pho served with a generous amount of extra lime, and her love for mangoes was evident in her enjoyment of mango-flavored drinks, cakes, and sticky sweet rice.

Throughout her life, Eppie cultivated deep and lasting friendships, effortlessly drawing people into her circle. She delighted in spoiling her grandchildren, showering them with money and treats, and creating cherished moments filled with laughter and love. Her daughter, Mary Joy, often reminisced fondly about their special bonding moments—especially their shared love for grocery shopping at Costco and enjoying meals together such as pho, pad see ew, ramen, halo-halo, and Jollibee’s chicken and palabok.

Eppie maintained a strong and loving bond with her cousin and sister at heart, Nora Hoganas, who lived in Virginia Beach. Hours spent on the phone kept their connection vibrant. Her friendships in Los Angeles were equally meaningful to her, and she often spoke of them with great affection. For many years, she was an active member of the senior center community, participating in Bible study sessions where she performed praise and worship alongside her dear friend and Bible teacher, Luz Coscolluela. Eppie found deep joy in her faith and was uplifted by the warm embrace of the New Beginning Church in Burbank, California. Pastor Lester Quijano held a special place in her heart, and she always left Sunday services feeling renewed and joyful.

Epifania is survived by her beloved family: her daughter Mary Joy Lachica-Reyes and son-in-law Dino Reyes; her grandchildren David Josh Reyes, Jerome Dax Reyes, and Matthew Joe Reyes; and her siblings Victorio P. Difuntorum, Adela D. Aragon, Pepito P. Difuntorum, Lolit D. Rabe, and Luvimin D. Chan.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband Deo Lachica; her mother Maura P. Difuntorum; her father Felimon Difuntorum; and her siblings Mariana D. Felix and Artemio P. Difuntorum.

Eppie will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her laughter, kindness, and joyful spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched throughout her remarkable life.