Teresita Ruiz Medina Abary

Teresita Ruiz Medina Abary was born on August 27, 1946 in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte-Philippines.  She is the eldest daughter of the late Isaac "Joaquin" Medina and Filipinas Ruiz Medina.  Her siblings are Angelita, Romulo, Mario, Marivi, Carmelo and beloved late brother Antero.  She is now reunited with her father and brother in Heaven! 

In her early 20's, Tessie came to the US landing first in Philadelphia, PA.  Tessie met her soul mate, Alexander Abary at ABM Sison Hospital, PI and he made a vow to rejoin her in the US following approval of his immigrant visa.  On May 1968, they were reunited in Chicago, Illinois and later married that year on October 26, 1968 at St. Ida's Church in Chicago.  The years that followed were full of dedication, sacrifice, determination and commitment.  Alex started his medical training and Tessie was very industrious working full-time as an RN at Michael Reese Hospital while also being a devoted and loving mother to her three children-Christian, Arlene and Brian.  Her children have all graduated from college and are working in successful industries.  Christian is 43 years old and an MBA Graduate residing in El Paso, Texas.  Arlene is 40 years old, a BA graduate of Communications and employed at a National Pharmaceutical Company in Newport Beach, Ca.  Brian is 38 years old, a Licensed Clinicial Psychologist employed in an LA Hospital.  Tessie & Alex have five grandchildren-Daryan-16, Princess-7, Sofia-5, Brianna-1 and the only grandson-newborn Isaac (her father's name) born on Valentine's Day! 

Tessie was not only a wonderful wife, daughter, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt and friend, she was a "Queen of all Trades".  She was always besides her husband in his medical practice and has owned and operated many of her own businesses to include a Developmentally Disabled Facility that was successful for many years.  She always had a good eye for success and success came easy for her because she believed in working hard and working wise.  Success can be acheived in great rewards when you believe in yourself and reach for the stars.  Anything can happen if you believe!  NAM-MYOHO-RENGE-KYO as she would say.  Inner peace and enlightenment through her chanting and "shakabukus" gave her the power to succeed in anything she wished to accomplish.  She was adored by many and often times people would turn to Tessie for advice, guidance or just someone to talk to. She always left an imprint in the hearts and minds of those she met and they forever remembered her sweet, infectious smile!  People would say, "Wherever Tessie went, the room would light up with her mere presence and smile".

In September 2009, after Tessie underwent emergency surgery of her spine at USC Medical Center she was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma Cancer.  Following this, she also received stem cell transplantations at the same center which proved effective for a year or so.  Periodic Chemotherapy soon followed.  Even though she lost weight, hair and stamina she continued to stand tall and fight back, "TURNING POISON INTO MEDICINE".  In October 2012 to date, she was frequently hospitalized but continued her fight and her will to live and be happy was evident.  With her husband, Alex, her children and her siblings by her side every step of the way comforting her--she fought the battle until her passing on March 11, 2013.  She laid to rest peacefully and with her infectious smile until her last breath.  The face of a precious Angel asleep--she was as beautiful as ever and a bright glow on her face still appeared. 

R.I.P. Dear and Ever Sweet Precious Angel of God, Teresita.....You will be missed by many, but your legacy and memory will live on forever through your family and those lives you have touched.  We Love You! 

WE WILL FOREVER REMEMBER and celebrate the life of one truly amazing woman, Teresita Ruiz Medina Abary!