With deep sorrow and abiding love, we announce the passing of Imelda Rojas Garcia, a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, nurse, musician, and faithful servant of God, who passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at the age of 80.

Born and raised in Manila, Philippines, Imelda carried the warmth, strength, and rich cultural heritage of her homeland throughout her life. After completing her education, she emigrated to the United States, settling in Pensacola, FL, where she would build her home, raise her family, and devote her life to serving others.

A woman of deep Catholic faith, Imelda was a dedicated member of the Carmelite Order, living her life rooted in prayer, kindness, and service.

Imelda earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from New York University, and served as an ICU nurse at Sacred Heart Hospital, where she was known for her steady hands and boundless compassion. Her nursing career spanned high-risk maternal care, geriatric psychiatric nursing, and work with the Escambia County Health Department, where she touched countless lives with her care and dignity.

A classically trained pianist, Imelda also held a Bachelor of Arts in Music with a focus in Concert Piano from St. Scholastica University in the Philippines. She shared her musical gifts as a pianist, teacher, and founder of a children's piano studio in Pensacola. Her music inspired many and created a lifelong ripple of creativity and joy in her community.

Imelda is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joaquin Garcia Jr.; her mother, Edna Rojas; and her brothers, Ronnie Rojas and Gerry Rojas.

She is survived by her loving family, who were the center of her world:
•    Jonathan Garcia and wife Montse Garcia, with their children Phillip Garcia, Brandon Garcia, Adrian Garcia , and Anabella Pathan (née Garcia) her husband Mohammad Pathan, with their children - Imelda's great-grandchildren - Sami Pathan and Niya Pathan.
•    Linda MacMullen (née Garcia) and husband Gary MacMullen, with daughter Quinn MacMullen
•    Joaquin Garcia III and wife Debbie Garcia, with sons Cameron Garcia and Nathan Garcia
She also leaves behind her brothers, Vicente Rojas and Chiqui Rojas; and sisters-in-law, Theresa Rojas and Joyce Rojas; as well as extended family and dear friends who will miss her deeply.

Visitation will be held from 10:00am until a Funeral Mass begins at 11:00am Friday, June 13, 2025, at The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Pensacola, FL, with Msgr. Michael Reed celebrant. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest beside her husband.

Pallbearers will be Brandon Garcia, Adrian Garcia, Phillip Garcia, Gary MacMullen, Joaquin Garcia III, and Jonathan Garcia.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Imelda's to the Sacred Heart "Cancer Foundation Fund" ( Donate ) with gratitude.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate teams at Sacred Heart St. Catherine's Unit and Sacred Heart Oncology, whose care provided comfort and dignity in her final days.
Imelda's life was a symphony of service, faith, and love - a melody that will continue to echo through the hearts of everyone she touched.