Suzette Jismundo
It’s been about 15 years since I last saw Lilia & almost 14 since she was taken from us. I can honestly say that I have (& always will) carry and treasure the fondest memories of her. I can’t really say for sure what it was that led me to find this tribute online but I can say for sure that I felt inspired to write this because someone like her should never be forgotten. She was genuine, kind and beautiful in so many ways. I guess I just felt the need to validate her and to keep her memory alive. I had the pleasure of meeting her (& her nephew, Arvin) while working at Orcon in Union City & it was a blessing & an honor to call her a friend. I looked forward to and enjoyed spending time with her outside of work and she made me feel welcomed and accepted when I married my Filipino husband and had my mestizo son. Even now I sometimes feel overwhelmed with grief and time has not diminished the sorrow I feel. Other times I just smile and feel so much gratitude for having been given the opportunity to know her. If given the chance, i would simply tell my dear, long lost friend that she will never be forgotten as she will always be very much alive in my heart. I know there will be a time when I get to see her again.
