Merlinda I Bautista

Merlinda I. Bautista, a devoted mother, accomplished professional, and woman of deep faith, passed away peacefully on December 23, 2025. She was 85 years old.

Born on January 30, 1940, in Sinait, Ilocos Sur, Philippines, Merlinda was the beloved daughter of Peregrino Ipac and Matilde Dangcil. From an early age, she demonstrated strength of character, determination, and compassion qualities that would guide her throughout her life.

Merlinda pursued higher education with passion and perseverance, earning her Doctorate of Dentistry from the University of the East in Manila, Philippines. Her achievement was a source of pride for her family and reflected her unwavering commitment to excellence and service to others.

After moving to the United States, Merlinda made Jersey City, New Jersey her home for most of her life. There, she built a life rooted in love, faith, and generosity. She was a strong willed yet deeply caring woman who always placed her family at the center of her world. A loving and devoted mother, she shared an especially close bond with her beloved daughter, Jocelyn Ann Bautista, who was the light of her life. She is also lovingly remembered by her cherished niece, Abigail David.

Merlinda had a deep appreciation for life’s simple and beautiful moments. She found joy in gardening, took pride in her cooking, and had a natural sense of style and fashion. Her home was a place of warmth, care, and quiet strength, reflecting her generous and compassionate spirit.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Oscar Bautista, with whom she shared a life of love and partnership. Though their time together has passed, their bond remains eternal.

Merlinda will be remembered as a woman of faith, resilience, and kindness. Her legacy lives on through the lives she touched, the family she nurtured, and the love she gave so freely.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 2, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., followed by entombment at Holy Name Cemetery in Jersey City, New Jersey.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.