With heartfelt sorrow, I, Jennifer Tovar, announce the peaceful passing of our dear mother, Patria Vista Tovar, on October 20, 2023. Born in the Philippines on April 4, 1943, Patria, affectionately known as Pat, was a spirited and charismatic woman whose resilience was unmatched. She was always funny, leading with laughter, and a true testament to strength. Her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched.

Patria was a lover of people and life. She migrated to Oakland, California, in 1965 and later settled in Amarillo, Texas, in 1986. Throughout her life, she fostered a love for socializing, always being the friendly face anyone could turn to. Her work as Certified Nursing Assistant allowed her to interact with people from all walks of life. A role she held for many years, demonstrating her compassionate nature. She was an awesome loving person who enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, always cherishing her strong faith in God. A woman of humor and grace, who could lighten even the heaviest of hearts with her laughter. She was the life of every gathering, capturing the room with her infectious charm. She made many friends and touched countless lives with her warmth and kindness. Regardless of the struggles of life that she endured, she maintained her zest for life, indulging in her love for socializing, garage sale hunting, and antique collecting.

She was a beacon of strength, a reflection of the love she had for God and her unwavering faith. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9. This verse embodied the very essence of Pat, her resilience, and her love for God.

Patria is preceded in death by her mother, Cresencia Vista Lastimosa, and brothers, Renato Vista Gemida, Sr. and Filadelpo Vista Lopez.

Surviving Patria are her loving children Jennifer Vista Tovar, Norma Layton, Carl Seth, Roxane Gonzales, Eduardo Vista, Sr., Salome Rosalia, Michelle Rosalia, and son-in-law Kevin Sophapmysay. She was also a beloved grandmother to MaryJane Estrada, Dayton Estrada, Jose Mendoza, Eduardo Vista Jr., and Anthony Boltron and a cherished great-grandmother to Oriana Vista, Edison Vista, and Hazel Murguia.

Patria’s life was a reflection of the verse in Proverbs 31:25, “She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.” Even though she didn’t always have the closest relationship with her children, her love for them was unconditional. The void she leaves is immense, but the memories we carry of her will continue to inspire and guide us.

In lieu of flowers we kindly ask for assistance to send her back to her final resting place in the Philippines.  Contributions may be made at: https://www.gofundme.com/f/patria-tovar.

A Memorial Service honoring Patria’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, October 29, at Lighthouse Funeral Home Chapel, 3707 Wolflin Ave.

We invite you to share your memories and photos of Patria on her memorial page. Let’s celebrate her life and remember the joy she brought into ours.