Jessica Canlas

Jessica Canlas, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and a dear friend, passed away peacefully on September 5, 2025. Born and raised in Sta. Mesa, Philippines, Jessica dedicated her life to her family and her work, leaving a legacy of love, resilience, and joy.

She is survived by her loving husband, Nelson Canlas; her children, Jomel, Joan, and Jaizel Ann; seven cherished grandchildren-five grandsons, AC, Joshua, Andrei, Niko, and Jayzel, and two granddaughters, Katie and Indigo; and one great-granddaughter, Harper.

Jessica's career spanned decades of dedication. She worked for 20 years in Congress in the Philippines before moving to California in 1996, where she continued her professional journey for 29 more years with Harriman Jones, Healthcare Partners, DaVita, Optum, and ultimately UnitedHealthcare. Even after surviving open-heart surgery and a quadruple bypass in 2005, Jessica's tireless work ethic and eagerness to contribute never waned. Retirement was never appealing to her-she thrived on staying busy and being active.

Above all else, Jessica was a nurturer at heart, and her love shone brightest in her kitchen. She delighted in preparing big meals for family and friends, always ensuring the fridge was stocked and everyone felt cared for. Her signature dishes-pancit, mechado, and sinigang-were beloved favorites, and she took immense joy in cooking for her grandchildren, always making sure their favorite meals were ready. For Jessica, feeding her loved ones was more than sustenance-it was an expression of her love, warmth, and devotion.

She treasured spending time with her grandchildren and creating memories that would last a lifetime. Jessica loved traveling, whether visiting her son and grandchildren in the Philippines or exploring new places with her best friends. Her life was defined by generosity, joy, and the unwavering love she poured into every role she held-as a mother, grandmother, friend, and incredible cook.

Jessica's legacy will live on in the hearts of her family, in the meals shared around her table, and in the countless moments of love and laughter she gifted to all who knew her.