In Loving Memory

Photo of Deserene Yvonne Staine

Deserene Yvonne Staine

October 31, 1953 — February 27, 2026

Deserene Yvonne Staine, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2026, at the age of 72. Born on October 31, 1953, in the vibrant village of Hattieville in Belize District, Belize, Deserene's life was a testament to love, strength, and unwavering dedication to her family and community. The cherished daughter of the late Louis and Castella Ysaguirre, Deserene was predeceased by her beloved parents, her son Dwight Bowen, her great-grandchildren Dhru Staine and Zaelynn Buckley, her brothers Vince Ysaguirre and Giles (Julie) Ysaguirre, and her sister by choice, Audrey Reyes. Her spirit now joins theirs in eternal harmony. She is survived by her devoted husband, Richard Staine Sr., and her loving children: Richard Staine Jr. (Shana), Dwayne Staine (Brendalyn), Wilbert Dyer (Cece), Oswald Garnett, and William Crawford. Her daughters, Roshawn Ku (Danny), Donaldine Ysaguirre Muqtasid (M. Abdullah), and Denise Conners (Brandon Graham) will continue her legacy of love and compassion. Deserene's siblings, brothers Louis (Arlene), Duane, and Gregory (Elsie Mae) Ysaguirre, and sisters Glenda Westby, Vernadelle Bailey, and Castella Ysaguirre, along with her sisters by choice, Sheldon Pollard and Linda Reyes, and sisters-in-law Anna Segura and Avril Ysaguirre, will forever hold her memory close, cherishing the bonds and memories they shared. Her grandchildren, Dwight (Kendra), Breayne, Ajay, Sharina Buckley (Dorian), Sharissa, Rissean, Da'Nae, Zaphaun Ku, Markeim, Markeise Brown, Kiara, Khailah, Kalisha Hall, Kree Conners, Kehlani Graham, and Andre Arnold, were the very center of her universe, and her influence will continue to guide them. Her great-granddaughter, Kaydee Staine, will carry forward Deserene's luminous spirit. A proud graduate of St. Hilda's College, Deserene began a lifelong devotion to education, touching countless lives as a beloved teacher for over 40 years. Her dedication and passion left an indelible mark on the hearts of many students, shaping the future with her wisdom and kindness. In her youth, Deserene was a woman of remarkable vitality, finding joy in playing softball, dancing, and playing cards with friends. Her birthday casino visits were legendary among her family and friends, exemplifying her zest for life. Deserene's big personality and unforgettable presence made her a cherished friend, and her unwavering honesty was a beacon of truth and love. A celebration of Deserene's life will be held on March 13, 2026, at 1:00 PM at the Family Mennonite Church, located at 6520 South Normandie Avenue, Los Angeles, CA. Family and friends will gather to honor her life and legacy, sharing stories and memories of a woman who gave so much to those she loved. In the words of her daughter, Donaldine Ysaguirre Muqtasid: "Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a broken tooth, and a foot out of joint." Proverbs 25:19. This sentiment reflects Deserene's unwavering faith and strength, even in the face of adversity. Deserene Yvonne Staine's life was a testament to the power of love, family, and education. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come, and her memory will forever be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.