Anastacia D. Padua

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Anastacia D. Padua, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She left this world peacefully on December 23, 2024, at 4:27 PM EST at Jersey City Medical Center in New Jersey. At 92 years old, Anastacia’s extraordinary life was a testament to love, resilience, and generosity.

Born on April 19, 1932, in Tabogon City, Cebu, Philippines, Anastacia was the third of nine children born to Antero and Alicia Dosdos. From her humble beginnings, she cultivated a life rich with stories, wisdom, and a deep connection to her family and community.

To those who knew her, she was lovingly called Mama, Ana, Mana Ana, Nani, or Tiya Naning—names that spoke of her warmth and the unique bond she shared with everyone in her life. Anastacia was a natural storyteller, often captivating her loved ones with tales from her youth: how she learned to drive at 16, her courage and resourcefulness as a 12-year-old girl hiding during World War II, or her adventures on horseback—including the unforgettable memory of her brother Ceding falling from his horse.

Anastacia’s life was a dance—a joyous rhythm of laughter, resilience, and love. She found immense happiness in dancing, traveling the world with family and friends, and gathering people together. Known for her compassionate heart, she was always ready to help others—whether by offering emotional support, referring someone to a job, or simply being a pillar of strength when times were hard.

She dedicated her life to her family and instilled in her children the importance of education, perseverance, and kindness. Her nurturing spirit knew no bounds, and she took great pride in her role as a mother and grandmother.

Anastacia was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Augusto Padua, who passed away on July 22, 1980. She is also reunited in eternal rest with her parents, Antero and Alicia Dosdos; her elder brother, Father Dominador “Doming” Dosdos; and her son-in-law, Jericho Mamuyac.

She is survived by her four children: Eileen P. Alcasid (married to Ben Alcasid), Era Raquel Padua, Jose “Antonio” Padua, and Sonia P. Chong (married to Andrew Chong). She also leaves behind five grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and countless extended family members and friends whose lives she touched with her love and care.

Special thanks go to our brother Antonio Padua, as well as family friends Trel Binaday and Lilian Gil, who lovingly ensured Anastacia’s well-being and safety during her later years. Their unwavering dedication allowed her to age with dignity and grace, surrounded by love.

Memorial Services

A celebration of Anastacia’s beautiful life will be held at the Riotto Funeral Home & Cremation Company, 3205 John F. Kennedy Blvd , Jersey City, NJ 07306, on Friday, December 27, 2024 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. (For GPS navigation it is best to use our parking lot address: 14 Stagg Street, Jersey City). Cremation was private. 

Anastacia’s legacy is one of love, kindness, and unwavering faith in the goodness of people. She will forever be remembered as the heart of her family, the light of her community, and a woman whose warmth and spirit will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her. She leaves this world a better place, her memory a guiding star for generations to come.