It is with profound sadness and heartfelt love that we announce the passing of Estrellita Dayrit Datu, affectionately known as Lita, who departed this life on June 2, 2026, in Anaheim Hills, CA, surrounded by those who cherished her deeply. Born on November 11, 1942, in the Philippines, Lita's life was a shining testament to kindness, dedication, and unwavering family love.

Lita’s journey was one marked by dedication and grace as she pursued her career with passion and integrity. She served as a Certified Public Accountant for the US Naval Base in the Philippines before continuing her work as an accountant in the United States. After retiring, she embraced entrepreneurship by founding eLit Tax Services, a business she built with pride and commitment. Among her proudest accomplishments was not only the mastery of her profession but also the establishment of her own company, which allowed her to leave a lasting impact on the lives of her clients.

Her family was the center of her universe. Known as the best mommy ever, Lita was always there with open arms and a warm heart. She was incredibly supportive, always finding ways to make life better for her loved ones. Her kindness extended into simple yet profound acts — waiting up for her daughters while providing warm meals after long days, offering hot chocolate to Pam during late-night homework sessions, and lovingly taking care of her grandson Dylan by taking him to school and bringing him lunch. Every person lucky enough to meet Lita remarked on her gentle spirit and described her as the nicest mom.

Lita’s personality was a beautiful blend of kindness, humility and generosity. She was welcoming and accommodating, never wanting to be the center of attention, but always making everyone around her feel cherished and supported. Her love of cooking was a gift to her family, creating moments of warmth and togetherness at every meal.

Outside of her professional and family life, Lita found joy in numerous hobbies that reflected her vibrant spirit. She loved watching baseball, proudly rooting for the Anaheim Angels. Bowling was a favorite pastime she enthusiastically shared, always encouraging others to join in the fun. Music enriched her days, with the melodies of Bruno Mars frequently filling her home through Pandora. She delighted in Mexican food, shopping through sales with keen enthusiasm, playing solitaire during quiet moments between tax preparations and even trying her luck playing craps in Las Vegas.

Lita’s legacy is one of love, resilience and care. She leaves behind her beloved daughters, Lalaine Villafuerte and Pamela Santos; her devoted sons-in-law, Manny Villafuerte and Aldo Santos; and her cherished grandson, Dylan Michael Villafuerte. She was preceded in death by her husband, Rolando Datu, whose memory she held dear.

Lita will be deeply missed. Her family will miss her voice, her smile, her advice and simply knowing she was there. But even as her family grieve, they hold on to a truth that brings comfort:

The body leaves.

Love remains.

The voice becomes memory.

Love remains.

The hand is no longer held.

Love remains.

Death may separate her physically, but it cannot take away the love she gave her family. That love lives on in their hearts, in their memories and in the lessons she taught them.

A visitation to honor Lita’s life will take place on June 23, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Forest Lawn - Cypress Hope Chapel, located at 4471 Lincoln Avenue, Cypress, CA 90630. The funeral service will follow on June 24, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Patriots Chapel within the same location.

Though she no longer walks among us, Lita Datu’s light will forever shine brightly in the hearts of those who knew her. Her enduring love, gentle spirit, and unwavering support remain a beacon of comfort and inspiration for all who were blessed to call her family and friend. She truly was a little star whose glow will never fade.