Obituary of Dolores Villon Tan

I have so many wonderful memories of Lola. She was a second mother to my siblings and me. She was Mom’s aunt and the closest relative she had here in the States. So, Lola became an extension of the love and security we felt at home. Mom and Dad would often take us to visit her and Lolo in Manhattan. They were fun visits to this other world of NYC, a dizzying place, always in motion, full of things to do and places to see and explore. The times Mom and Dad would leave us with them are among my best memories. Lola and Lolo took us on countless bus rides through the city to museums, to Church, to parks, to Chinatown, to Little Italy, and countless places that were so amazing to a young girl. I know I got my dream of living in the city from the adventures they took us on. Lola was always so calm and purposeful in her movements and conversations. She wasn’t a person of thoughtless chatter. She really listened to what you were saying. Her smiles were so serene. She smiled with her eyes and heart as well as her lips. I never doubted her love for us. She’s taught me lessons that I remember now. I often wondered how she knew how to be so wise and clever in the lessons that it stuck so well. I will forever cherish the memories I have of her from the year I lived with them. When it was just the two of us, Lola and I would have countless conversations at the dining table. I’d also sit with her while she prepared her egg salad with olives for work parties. I still make my egg salad her way. I loved hearing stories about her life in the Philippines, about Mom when she was younger, and about her work. I later heard about how much she gave back in service, even after retiring. Lola’s strength of heart and character is undeniable. I know I will hold an ache of sadness for what-ifs and should-have-dones. But, Lola, I am so happy you’re in Heaven with God and loved ones. Rest in peace and have the best rocking party in Heaven. You deserve every blessing and moment of happiness. I will never forget you and will love you always.

Today, my heart is full of gratitude and love as I remember my dear Lola Loleng. You brought so much joy and adventure into my childhood. I’ll never forget our trips to New York City — walking everywhere with you, riding the subway and NYC buses for the first time, and feeling so confident and alive because you were right there with us. Your apartment in Stuyvesant Town was my favorite place in Manhattan. I loved playing in the city playgrounds, feeding the squirrels, and how Dad would search for parking for hours, then refuse to move the car once we finally found a spot — because being with you was worth every minute. You were such a wonderful cook. While I’ll always say Mom’s chicken adobo is number one, yours came in a very close second — warm, delicious, and made with so much love. Every visit felt like home. Lola Loleng, you are a huge part of my childhood and a big part of who I am today. I miss you deeply, but I carry your spirit, your strength, and your warmth with me always. Rest in peace, Lola. Thank you for all the beautiful memories. I love you.

Lola was a bright light in our lives because she LIVED in the city. Sleepovers watching the Empire State Building. Toll house cookies baking all comfy in the pull out sleeper couch. I remember the downtown stores and visiting the different counters. Clinique was our favorite especially purple and grey anything! Lola, you will be missed. We loved the moments together and hope you are looking down with smiles of all the joy you brought our family. Love you Lola.

My sweet Lola, Some of my most cherished childhood memories are the summers we spent with you and Lolo in the city. I will always remember walking all around the neighborhood together, going to the park where you would sit on the bench watching us, and then stopping for ice cream at Baskin-Robbins afterward. Those simple moments meant the world to me. I can still picture all the beautiful plants in your apartment and the family table where we would sit together, talking, laughing, and sharing meals. Your home was always filled with love, warmth, and happy memories that I will carry with me forever. Thank you for giving me such a wonderful childhood and for loving our family so deeply. You will be missed more than words can express, but I find comfort knowing you are reunited with my mom in heaven. I like to imagine the two of you together again, watching over all of us. Rest in peace, Lola. I love you, and I will carry you in my heart always.