John Nagaia

John Nagaia, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on March 25, 2024, at the age of 90, in Palm Springs, California. Born on November 30, 1933, in Lautoka, Fiji, John led a remarkable life filled with love, hard work, and devotion to his family.

John's journey began in Fiji, where he worked tirelessly as a handyman and later as a taxi driver, saving every penny for his dream of a better life. In 1958, he bravely left his homeland soon settling in London, England, eventually marrying his beloved wife, Eunice Nagaia, in 1967. In London, John worked as a factory worker and driver, embodying the values of resilience and determination.

In 1978, John and Eunice made their way to the United States and planted roots in Modesto, California, where John found fulfillment in his work at Doctors Medical Center for close to 20 years as a dedicated housekeeper. In addition to his career in healthcare, John was an astute entrepreneur, investing in and managing real estate around the Modesto area.

After retiring, John cherished the opportunity to travel, often visiting family in Fiji, Australia and New Zealand, and exploring the world through numerous cruises. His adventurous spirit and zest for life were an inspiration to all who knew him.

Just prior to his passing, John embarked on a new chapter with his beloved wife, Eunice, relocating to Palm Springs to be closer to their son, Jase. John took immense pride in the accomplishments of his children. His daughter, Jane, a Nurse Practitioner, followed in his footsteps, dedicating over 26 years of service to the same hospital where he once worked. His son, Jase, a CRM Manager, welcomed his parents with open arms, recently purchasing a home in Palm Springs to ensure their comfort and happiness.

John will be deeply missed by his loving wife, Eunice Nagaia; his devoted children, Jason (Jase) Nagaia, and Jane Joseph, and her husband Richard; his cherished grandsons, Ethan and Aiden Joseph; his sisters, Sharda Naidu of Canada and Ruku Naiker of New Zealand; and a multitude of nieces, nephews, and extended family members across the US, Canada, Fiji, Australia, and New Zealand.

A memorial service will be held at Forest Lawn in Cathedral City on Friday, April 12th, at 10 am, followed by a graveside service at Desert Memorial Park, with a reception to follow.

Though John may no longer be with us in person, his legacy of love, resilience, and generosity will forever live on in the hearts of those he touched. May he rest in peace, knowing he was deeply loved and cherished by all who knew him.