Anita Martin Lafuente

Anita Martin Lafuente was born near Tayabas, Quezon to Jose and Patricia Martin on Dec. 5, 1926. She was the only daughter and second of five children. On Dec. 28, 1945, the formal love story began for Dr. Samson Obcemea Lafuente and Nita. They grew their family to have Dr. Pete, (deceased), Louie (deceased) and Mila (Redlands, CA). They moved to Sampaloc, Manila where Sam studied dentistry and soon had his own dental practice while Nita raised their children. The family hosted many functions and became socialites in their area. Sam and Nita followed the great migration to the U.S and relocated to Vidalia, GA in June 1972 where Sam helped to grow the Collins Dental Lab. Nita took on a seamstress position and enjoyed her first job outside of the home. They were a very traditional couple where Sam would drop her off at work and pick her up at the end of the day. Both enjoyed gardening and cooking for friends and family. She was known for her leche flan and chiffon cake which were expected at all parties. If you were lucky enough, she would prepare both for your birthday.

Nita continued her love of hosting events by providing a welcoming environment for Filipino nurses and soldiers in the military who were temporarily stationed in the area. Sam and Nita became the automatic Godparents, grandparents, parents, and aunt and uncle to so many who were far from their homes in the Philippines. From these associations, they became family to so many US based Filipinos. There are numerous photos depicting their travels to visit their extended family all over the U.S. This special couple celebrated a huge 50th wedding anniversary where they renewed their vows. Both enjoyed quiet and relaxing days as retirees until Sam's untimely death in 1998. A devout Catholic and prayer warrior, she began her day in the presence of the Lord and ended each day with praying the rosary. Nita stayed in Vidalia until April 2017 where she then joined Mila, her husband Rick, and daughter Marylou in California.

In December 2021, many family members and friends gathered to celebrate Nita turning 95. Beside her were also grandchildren Brian and Pam and nephew Albert. Even until her last years, she enjoyed celebrating life. Her recent Mother’s Day was spent being remembered by so many from near and far. On Wednesday, May 11, Nita suffered a massive stroke and joined our Lord on Friday, May 13. She is to be cremated, and a mass for local family will be held at The Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church in Redlands. A larger ceremony where everyone is welcome will be in the fall in her hometown of Vidalia, Georgia. Her final resting place will be at Vidalia Memorial Gardens alongside husband Sam, son Dr. Pete, and grandson Pete Jr.

Nita is survived by her daughter Mila and husband Rick (Redlands, CA); grandchildren Pam and husband Sylvester (Atlanta, GA), Pauline and husband Charlie (Columbus, OH), Brian (Atlanta, GA), Marylou (Redlands, CA); daughters in love Yollie (Vidalia, GA) and Joy (Winnipeg, Canada); great-grandchild William (Columbus, OH); and fluffy grandbaby Zoe (Redlands, CA).