Jesusa Garcia Andersen, passed away peacefully in her sleep in Mission Viejo, California, at the age of 89 on Saturday, March 22, 2025.

Affectionately known as Jay, Susing, Grandma Jay, and Mommy, Jesusa was a beloved matriarch to her eight children. Born to Gregorio Deliso Garcia and Margarita Rimando Garcia, she was one of nine siblings, all of whom have since passed: Theopilo, Carmen, Lily, Merced, Irineo, Lydia, Tugle, and Luz. Jesusa leaves behind a legacy of love through her eight children—Winston, Suzette (Steve), Rose Marie (Robert), Cynthia (Myles), John, Hebron (aka "Mom's Favorite"), Charmaine, and Catherine (Michael)—as well as her 11 cherished grandchildren: Michael Jay, Danica, Joel, Sheldon, Winston Jr., Ciana, Cameron, Seamus, Kristinne, Mariah, and Jordan. Her family also includes three delightful great-grandchildren: Kyra, Luis, and Malia.

Jesusa graduated from Southwestern University in Cebu City, Philippines, with a degree in pharmacy. During her time there, she captivated her peers and was crowned Miss Pharmacy, showcasing her charm and charisma alongside her academic achievements. After graduation, she taught high school biology. She married Noel Ballesteros Lacuesta and together they had 8 beautiful children.

Jesusa loved her family.

Driven by her unwavering dream of building a meaningful life for her 8 children, she fearlessly embarked on a transformative journey to the United States alone. Starting from San Francisco and then making her way to Las Vegas and Reno, she embraced every opportunity that came her way. With relentless determination, she meticulously saved every penny, working tirelessly to navigate the challenges that came her way. After years of dedication and perseverance, she triumphed against all odds, successfully bringing all her kids from the Philippines to their new home in the United States.

She also embraced Noel's two children from his subsequent marriage, Marife and Bruner, with open arms, welcoming them into her heart as if they were her own. She lovingly encouraged them to call her "Mom," a beautiful testament to her boundless love and compassion.

Jesusa loved traveling.

Having two of her boys in the military (Winston, Navy 20-years; John, Army 20-years), she was able to experience life in Italy and Germany, savoring every moment of her globetrotting life. For the past three decades, she has made California her vibrant home base, visiting her kids scattered across North America. From the dazzling lights of Las Vegas and the excitement of Reno that is known as "The Biggest Little City in the World" to the sunny vibes of Orange County, Los Angeles County, San Diego County, and finally to the charming town of Sugar Pine that feels like a hidden gem, her life has been a whirlwind of fun and family.

Please feel free to share your favorite stories and fond memories of Jesusa.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you plant a tree in her honor. See the link below.

A celebration of Jesusa's life will take place on Saturday, August 2, 2025, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at McCormick & Son, located at 1795 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, California 92651. This will be followed by a private reception with food and drinks. An invitation to the reception will be sent via E-vite. Thank you.

To view webcasting of the services, please click HERE .