Born January 27, 1953, Nancy Abarca passed away peacefully with loved ones by her side February 20, 2024. Nancy was a leader in her family and Filipino-American community. She was the eldest of eight, and first to bravely immigrate to the United States in 1978 from her homeland Mangagoy, Surigao del Sur, Philippines. Here, she worked as a ICU and OR Registered Nurse for 47 years. Nancy made a lasting impact to those in her care and colleagues. She was a member of the Philippine Nurses Association of Greater St. Louis since it's founding in the early 90's. Her energy and efforts paved the way for her siblings to go to college, secure jobs, then also become US citizens.

She guided others to God with full faith. As a devout Catholic, she enjoyed spreading the word of the Lord with her prayer group. She loved to travel and see the world full of God's creations, she always made sure to visit a Catholic Church no matter where she was. She was happiest when the whole family would accompany her in prayer. She was the matriarch of the family. Known as Ate, she was the ideal role model for her younger siblings and later on their children. Married for 35 years, she and Ernie always stole the spotlight when they ballroom danced together at parties. Most of all, she was an encouraging and involved mother to her son Mark. She will be remembered by her passion for God and goodwill for others. Her faith lives on through her loved ones, her husband Ernie, son Mark, sisters Nelsie, Winda, Malou, and Lori, brothers Dennis and Renato, nieces, nephews, cousins, and an endless list of friends. She is met in heaven by her mother Mama Joving, father Tito and brother Tito Jr. May she continue to rest in God's everlasting light.

Funeral Mass will be Saturday February 24 at 10AM at Holy Spirit Parish with reception afterwards.