Maria Celina Emano Embry, beloved daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 31, 2025, in Newport News, Virginia, at the age of 60. She was born in the Philippines and came to the United States at the age of 13, where she built a life full of love, kindness, and community.
Maria was a proud mother of six and a devoted Lola to three beautiful grandchildren. She was also a caring partner to her long-time companion, Rafael. As the eldest sister, she carried her role with grace and generosity, always looking after her family and those around her.
Maria had a heart of gold filled with kindness and selflessness. She was accepting of all and had a gift for seeing the good in everyone she met. Outgoing and full of life, she made friends everywhere she went and had a natural ability to make everyone feel seen and welcomed. Her home and heart were always open and to many, she was a second mom who offered comfort and refuge. Her ability to make others feel loved was unmatched.
Maria was known for her love of bingo, dancing, and trying her luck on the slot machines. She also enjoyed going out to eat and found joy in sharing meals and laughter with family and friends.
In her early years, Maria was an active member of the Philippine-American Community of the Peninsula (PACP), where she proudly shared her talent for hula dancing. She performed at community events, including Coast Guard Day in Yorktown and at several Newport News retirement homes. Her grace and confidence shone early in life when she was named first runner-up in the Phoebus Community Center pageant during her high school years.
In recent years, Maria faced illness with the same courage, faith, and determination that defined her life. She fought hard, always maintaining her love for those around her and reminding everyone to stay strong and keep pushing through life’s hardest moments.
Maria will be remembered for the compassion, generosity, and joy she brought to everyone she met. Her legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren, family, and the countless lives she touched with her love.
Forever in our hearts, her love will continue to shine through all who knew her.
