Beth Regalado-Gillette

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the sudden and unexpected passing of Beth Hernandez Regalado-Gillette on August 20, 2024, at the age of 75. Beth left us peacefully at her home in Seattle, WA, due to natural causes (aneurysm). Her loss leaves an irreplaceable void in our lives, but her memory will forever shine bright.

She was born Beatriz Teresa Hernandez Decena on October 10, 1948, in the Philippines in Canaman, Camarines Sur. She was the 4th born child of Santas and Leoncio Decena. She graduated from Camarines Sur National High School and went on to study Nursing at Universidad de Sta. Isabel in Naga, Camarines Sur, Philippines where she laid the foundation for a life dedicated to care and service.

Driven by her adventurous spirit and a desire for new opportunities, she made the courageous decision to immigrate to the United States and fell in love with Seattle. It became her lifelong home, where she raised three children and continued to nurture and support those around her. Her family became the heartbeat of her life and she gave up her career to be closer to them and worked at St. Paul School in Seattle, WA. As her kids grew up she began working for Ryder Transportation, driving school buses that carried students of all ages, including those with special needs. Her love for her faith was unshakeable, and she became a beacon of hope, spreading the message of love and compassion both on and off the bus, in and out of church, and throughout the community.

It was at this new adventure where fate brought her to Don, a lost soul searching for meaning. With her guidance, Don embarked on a transformative journey into Catholicism, finding his way back to faith. Their connection blossomed into a union built on faith, love, and shared purpose.
She was preceded in death by Jess Regalado, her parents, Santas and Leoncio Decena, her elder brothers, Sam and Mariano Decena and her grandsons, Lukas and Jayden Regalado, as well as others.
She is survived by her husband, Don, and three children, James-dee (Luann), Andrew, Ruth (Ken), granddaughter, Elena Vye, and two brothers Jose and Francisco Decena.

In Seattle, a Viewing & Vigil will be held on September 18th at Columbia Funeral Home, a funeral Mass on September 19th at St. Edward's Church with reception to follow and a burial soon after at Gethsemane Cemetery in Federal Way.