Adelaida Domingo

Adelaida “Del” Taraya Domingo, a dedicated educator, beloved mother, and cherished member of the community, passed away on October 9, 2023, at the age of 88. Del was born in March 1935, in Agoo, La Union, Philippines, to Maria Francisco Salvaterra and Juan Habla Taraya. Del led an inspirational life, filled with love, culture, and learning.

Del’s passion for education shaped her lifelong journey. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Education from the Philippine Normal University, a Master’s degree in Education from San Francisco State University, and pursued a Doctorate degree in Education from the University of the Pacific. She dedicated 47 years to teaching, leaving an indelible mark on generations of students. Del’s career included serving as a reading specialist at Hazelton Elementary School in the Stockton Unified School District and as an English as a second language instructor at San Joaquin Delta College.

In her pursuit of knowledge and cultural exchange, Del came to the United States from the Philippines on a Fulbright Scholarship, enriching her life and the lives of those she encountered. She played a pivotal role in helping numerous individuals fulfill their educational dreams. Del was a founding member of the Association of Filipino Americans in Education (AFAE), where her contributions were invaluable. In recognition of her outstanding accomplishments, Del was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award in April 2023 by AFAE and the State of California.

Equally gifted with practical wisdom, Del often shared invaluable lessons on unconditional love and forgiveness, along with the importance of respect and kindness. She was immensely proud of her family and consistently made helping others her main priority.

Del is lovingly remembered by her children, Sonny, daughter-in-law Jennifer, Sissy, Magda, son-in-law Stephen, and her six grandchildren Avry, Morgan, Noelle, Rosie, Trio, and Myla. Del was also a dear sister, survived by Fanny Bustos, Mercy Bajar, Butch Taraya, and Roger Taraya. She was predeceased by her siblings Juan Taraya, Jr., Justina Taraya Abuan, and Ramon Taraya. Del created a family environment that was warm, nurturing, and grounded in unconditional love.

Del’s legacy of love, kindness, and dedication to education will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her impact on the lives of her family, students, and the community will continue to resonate for generations to come.

Events to remember and celebrate Del’s life are as follows:
Vigil (viewing) on Friday, November 3, 2023, from 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM at St. Mary Cemetery and Funeral Center, 6509 Fruitridge Road, Sacramento, CA.

Funeral services on Saturday, November 4, 2023, at 12:00 Noon at St. Mary Cemetery and Funeral Center, 6509 Fruitridge Road, Sacramento, CA.
We invite those who knew and loved Adelaida “Del” Domingo to join us in commemorating her wonderful life and the positive impact she made on all of us. She will be remembered and deeply missed.

The Stockton Association of Filipino Americans in Education (AFAE) has set up a scholarship fund in memory of Adelaida Domingo. AFAE is an organization that supports educators and rewards students of Filipino descent with scholarships to assist with college expenses. Donations can be sent to Virginia Navarro at 678 Castle Oaks Drive, Stockton, CA 95209. Checks can be made payable to “AFAE” noted for “Adelaida Domingo Scholarship.”

Flowers for Services:
Nina’s Flowers & Gifts, Elk Grove, CA
Tel: (916) 686-6664 (Deanne)