Romeo Lama Guirnela

Romeo Lama Guirnela, 88, of Frisco, Texas, passed away peacefully on February 23, 2025. He was born on January 27, 1937, in Silay City, Negros Occidental, Philippines, to Ruperto and Margarita Guirnela.

Romeo was a gifted musician, graduating from the University of the Philippines Diliman, College of Music with a Bachelor of Music Education, specializing in Voice. He was a proud recipient of a scholarship from the Music Promotion Foundation of the Philippines and studied under Jovita Fuentes, a National Artist for Music. Throughout his career, Romeo performed as a tenor soloist, including at the prestigious 48th and 50th Jubilee Anniversary Concerts of the University of the Philippines College of Music. His career as an opera singer took him to stages such as the Cultural Center of the Philippines. Romeo also dedicated his life to teaching music, sharing his passion as a music educator at Quirino High School in Quezon City, Philippines.

In 2012, Romeo moved to the United States to join his daughter, Maribel, and her family. In his later years, he enjoyed singing karaoke and performing a cappella songs, continuing to share his remarkable vocal talent with loved ones. His love for music, his unwavering Catholic faith, and his kind, compassionate nature left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.

Romeo was preceded in death by his father, Ruperto Guirnela; mother, Margarita Guirnela; brother, Rogelio Guirnela; sister, Gilda Guirnela Batosalem; and his beloved wife, Zenia Bascos Guirnela.

He is survived by his daughter, Maribel Guirnela Egar; son-in-law, Thadeus Egar; grandson, Thads Michael Egar; granddaughter, Thricia Marizen Egar; their family pet, Maia, all of Frisco, Texas; his sister, Nieva Guirnela Espino of the Philippines; as well as many loving family members and friends.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, February 28, 2025, at Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 8000 Eldorado Parkway, Frisco, Texas 75033.

Romeo will be deeply missed, but his legacy of music, faith, and love will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.