Bernardita Perez Billedo

Bernardita Perez Billedo, of Chilliwack, British Columbia, passed away on December 13, 2024, at the age of 77 years. She was born on October 27, 1947, in Matag-ob, Leyte, Philippines, to parents Modesta Abadies and Ciriaco Perez, as the oldest of twelve siblings.

Bernardita was the first of her family to have a college education. She graduated with distinction with a degree in Education in Leyte. She then worked as elementary school teacher. She married Arsenio Billedo in 1972, and they had three children. In 1984, she worked overseas in Hong Kong. A few years later in 1989, she emigrated to Edmonton, Alberta, where she became a Canadian citizen. After retiring in the mid-2010s, she moved and settled in Chilliwack with her life partner, Dennis Epp.

Bernardita was a remarkable woman whose life was a testament to love, generosity, and resilience. As a dedicated caretaker, skilled massage therapist, and compassionate landlord, she spent her life lifting others up, generously helping her children, siblings, extended family, and close friends to create better futures for them. Her zest for life was infectious; she loved to travel, share meals, and laugh with those closest to her, transforming ordinary moments into extraordinary memories. In the kitchen, she was a gifted cook and baker, with her culinary creations reflecting the warmth of her spirit.

Bernardita was a force of nature. She was hard-working, energetic, and incredibly kind. She approached life as a strong warrior with an unbreakable spirit and a positive attitude. She would write personal affirmations to herself in her free time, and some of these included living free of debt, illness, and suffering, living a harmonious life with relatives -- and winning the jackpot.

Her grace touched countless lives, and her legacy lives on through the love, wisdom, and profound values she instilled in her children and friends. More than just surviving life's challenges, Bernardita embraced them with remarkable strength and an open heart, leaving an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to have known her. She believed the principle of Right Action governed her life.

Bernardita is survived by her three children, Marlowe (of Surrey, British Columbia), Aline (of Redwood City, California), and Marjorie (of Edmonton, Alberta) and her seven beautiful grandchildren, Danielle, Abegale, Marc, Mia, Mariebelin, Meryn, and Joshua.

A visitation for Bernardita will be held Friday, January 10, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a funeral service officiated by Fr. Tien Tran from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at St. Matthew's Roman Catholic Parish, 16079 88 Ave, Surrey, BC V4N 1G3. A reception will follow the service.