Marciana Tomas Bautista

A Remarkable Life

Born on January 2, 1924, in San Jose, Nueva Ecija, Philippines, to Juan Laureta Tomas and Maria Somera Pascual, Marciana witnessed and embraced more than a century of change in the world. Nothing swayed her and as a fierce woman, she took on a major role to work on her family’s farm, rice fields and gardens. It was her passion and dedication to such a hard work ethic that it stayed with her wherever life took her. When she arrived in the United States, she was praised by her nursing home co-workers and at the family’s restaurant business for 20 years. Throughout every decade, she remained strong and adaptable, moving across the world with grace and determination.

She was a woman of few words and quiet resilience, but shared deep wisdom. Marciana lived through injustices, wars, triumphs, hardships, and celebrations, meeting each season of life with remarkable fortitude and steadfast faith.

Strength defined her—not only in years, but in spirit. She worked intensely, loved fiercely, forgave generously, and taught those around her the value of perseverance. Even in her later years, she remained sharp, independent, and deeply interested in the lives of those she cherished. She never forgot a name and made sure to welcome you with her warm smile.

Marciana was the heart of her family, a true matriarch. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend, whose love and sacrifices knew no limits. Her stories spanned generations, her advice was treasured, and her laughter could still light up a room well into her second century.

Her legacy lives on in the lives she shaped, the traditions she passed down, and the family who will forever carry her lessons forward. She is survived by her devoted daughter, Linda and her husband Bert Arciaga, her loyal sons Manuel Bautista (Gloria), Martin Bautista (Patring), Albert Bautista (Celia), Lito Bautista (Lyn) and her brother Cornelio Pascual Tomas (Zeny). Marciana was very proud of her grandchildren and countless great grandchildren who were truly blessed by her presence.

Though 102 years feels both long and short, her family takes comfort in knowing she lived fearlessly with many powerful gifts, she always left the world better than she found it. A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered for years to come.

A Visitation with an opening prayer and 9th day novena for the dead will be held at Singleton Funeral & Cremation Services on Friday, Feb. 20th, from 4 - 8 pm. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Saturday, Feb. 21st, 11 am, at St. Philip Neri Catholic Church, 6405 S. Orchard Road, Linthicum Heights, MD 21090. Marciana's graveside service will be held on Monday, 1 pm, at Holy Cross Cemetery, 6020 Ritchie Highway, Brooklyn Park, MD 21225.

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