Rosa Pily Alvarez

Rosa Alvarez, affectionately known as Pily to most who knew and loved her, passed away on her 94th birthday, Saturday, September 5. Pily shared 64 beautiful years of marriage with her beloved husband, and together they built a loving family. They were blessed with three children, Letty, Arnulfo “Pete,” and Rosa “Viby,” as well as seven grandchildren, Efren, Roman, Nadia, Janelle, Shawn, Karina y Cyndi, and seven great-grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Laayla, Ava, Moisés, AJ, Xavier y Novah. She was blessed with an amazing daughter-in-law, Jobie, and son-in-law, Ismael, who were always there to help, and she loved them as her own children. She also leaves behind countless dear friends, family, and caregivers who will forever miss her presence, her laughter, and her love. Pily faced more than her share of health challenges. She survived stage-four melanoma, back surgery, heart attacks, colorectal cancer, and brain cancer. Yet somehow, through every challenge, she remained positive, determined, and focused on getting better and living life. Her incredible strength and determination made her a true shero to her family. She taught us all what it means to keep fighting, keep loving, and keep finding reasons to smile. Pily loved to travel, especially with her husband. Together they traveled extensively, with many special memories made along the beautiful beaches of Mexico. In the last five years, she especially enjoyed her visits to San Diego, where she delighted in discovering new restaurants and different foods, visiting favorite places, and making more memories at the beaches. She had a contagious happiness that could light up a room. She loved her cocktails, Mexican food, and, perhaps most memorably, singing along with the mariachis—from Mexico to Los Angeles. She knew how to enjoy life, celebrate the moment, and make those around her feel happy simply by being herself. Although our hearts are broken by her passing, we are grateful for the 94 years she shared with us, for every battle she overcame, every adventure she took, every song she sang, and every moment of happiness she gave so freely. Our shero is gone, but her strength, determination, laughter, and happy spirit will live in all of us forever.