Dr. Felicisima G (Barrera) Tolentino

With deep sorrow and profound gratitude for a life so generously lived, we announce the passing of Dr. Felicisima G. Barrera-Tolentino, a cherished wife, devoted mother and grandmother, trailblazing physician, and a woman of extraordinary strength and compassion. She departed this world on April 7, 2025, leaving behind a luminous legacy that will forever echo in the lives she touched.

Born with a heart destined for healing, Dr. Barrera-Tolentino journeyed from her homeland to the United States under a 4th preference visa, where she was welcomed by her family, U.S. citizens rooted in Kalihi Valley, Hawaii. Her path was one of perseverance and grace—a path that led her to Jersey City Medical Center, where she completed her residency training and pursued a fellowship in Neonatology.

With dedication and love for children and families, she opened her private Pediatrics practice at 3524 Kennedy Boulevard, a sanctuary of care for over 30 years. Her clinic became a cornerstone of the community, where her steady hands and warm heart were trusted across generations. Her career, however, was unceremoniously halted by the pandemic she fought so fiercely. COVID-19 not only forced her to close her doors, but it later claimed her health, followed by a quiet battle with leukemia.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Rodolfo OG Tolentino, who stood by her through life’s many seasons. Together, they raised a family shaped by love and resilience. Their son, Maengel B. Tolentino, 54, carries her strength and spirit, and is lovingly supported by his wife Maria and their children, Amelia and Joshua, who were the sparkle in their grandmother’s eyes.

Their daughter, Linglingay Diaz, 51, a reflection of her mother’s grace, survives her as well. Linglingay is the proud mother of Logan and Ella Carandan, and wife to Joel Diaz, all of whom brought endless joy and purpose to Dr. Barrera-Tolentino’s days.

Felicisima was preceded in death by her beloved father Macario Barrera & mother Victoria Gabatin, whose memory she held close to her heart.

To her family, she was the heart that held everyone together. To her patients, she was a healer, a confidante, and a beacon of hope. To all who knew her, she was a rare blend of brilliance and humility, of quiet courage and fierce love.

Though her physical voice has fallen silent, her legacy will continue—in every child she helped, in every life she bettered, and in every memory whispered in gratitude and love. Her final diagnosis may have been illness, but her life was defined by healing.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Riotto Funeral Home & Cremation Company, 3205 John F.. Kennedy Blvd., Jersey City, NJ, 07306 ( For GPS it is best to use our parking lot address: 14 Stagg St., additional parking located on Kennedy Blvd.). Cremation will be private.