Maria Gallardo Evangelista

Maria Gallardo Evangelista “Patty Mae” 61 years old of Charlottesville, VA died due to complications of cancer on March 29, 2023. Born on May 10, 1961 in Laoag City, Philippines to Leonides and Evelyn Gallardo. As the third among nine children, Patty learned the importance of unshakable faith, a home-cooked family dinner, and diligence in any task, big or small. She met her husband of 35 years, Butch Evangelista, working as a nurse in Kuwait and together began to build their soon-to-be-global love story. They traveled all over the world and even raised their first child, Michael, in different continents to build the best life possible for their family. After immigrating to New York in 1992, Patty and Butch had their second child, Mariel in 1995. When Patty saw Charlottesville as the premier city to raise a family, she knew this was where they were destined to be. In 1997, Patty began her 25 year career at UVA; building relationships that went far beyond the walls of the hospital. She was admired for her work ethic, high standards, and ability to touch her patient’s lives leading to numerous awards like the coveted Employee of the Month and Daisy Award. Their family also flourished as dedicated members of Covenant, now Harvest Church of God. Her efforts at work and church were only surpassed by her love for her husband and two children. Putting her family first and instilling strong beliefs in hard work and perseverance to her children serve as only the beginning of her dedication to create a Godly life at home. The most incredible part of Patty’s story is that many of these memories and moments happened while she was battling four major cancer diagnoses spanning over 20 years. From multiple surgeries to various treatments like chemo and radiation, to name a few, anyone that knows her understands that she was a fighter and battled relentlessly for her family. She is survived by her husband, Butch, son, Michael and daughter, Mariel alongside a strong community spanning the world: extended family, nurses, church members, childhood friends. There will be a Celebration of Life (memorial service) at Harvest Church of God the morning of Saturday, April 8th, at 10 AM ET. We ask you to wear pastel colors and come prepared to share your favorite memories of Patty Mae.