Pilar Mene Pilapil

My name is Liza and I’m Pilar’s younger and only surviving sibling. Though my sister and I are 8 years apart, she was a great sister to me.

I want to share a few things I learned from my sister, Pilar over the 34 years I knew her. No; they are not period of years but stages of being. Her full life. Her illness. Her Dying. I was with her every step of these distinct periods.

My sister Pilar has cast so much light in so many ways, in so many lives. Her life - like a light, it finally went out but she has left sparks of light in all of us: her love of mankind in general, her family, and her friends in particular. She appreciates beauty, life, friendship, and most of all - she appreciates family. Family is important for her. Pilar was a dear daughter, a sister, a sister-in-law, cousin, cousin-in-law, niece, an aunt, godmother, a mentor, a nurse, a friend, and most of all, she was a family and to us all gathered here today, WE are her family.

And so, It came as that much more of a shock when we learned of her illness. She was the fighter, the family were hopeful she will defeat the cancer that threatened her. We knew that she had so much more to give, to teach, to share, that it just had to come out OK.

Somehow it didn’t. Still, as I stand here before you all today, looking out at the many lives she touched and remembering all the causes she championed and contributed to; I know that she has achieved what she set out to do. Her compassion has touched us all and Pilar will always be remembered for her warmth and generosity, her commitment, her brilliance and optimism, and specially for her great big heart - she is always there when help is needed.

My dear friends and family although she has gone to rest, she has left sparks of light in all of us. I am blessed to have been able to met amazing people throughout this journey and supported by many wonderful people. Im grateful for the privilege of being Pilar’s sister. Pilar’s kindness will always be remembered and she will be missed dearly...may she rest in peace.