Jaime Santa Isabel Bautista

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Jaime Santa Isabel Bautista Sr., 84, who departed this life after a long and fulfilling journey.

Born on January 28, 1941, in Pasig City, Philippines, Jaime was one of twelve children to Mateo Vesmonte Bautista, a farmer and shoemaker, and Candelaria Ramos Santa Isabel, a homemaker.

From a young age, Jaime faced financial hardships, which instilled in him a strong work ethic. He began working early in life while diligently pursuing his education, ultimately earning a Bachelor of Commercial Science Major in Accounting from Jose Rizal University in April 1967. This dedication led him to secure a stable job in the Philippines.

Driven by a desire to provide a better life for his family, Jaime set his sights on the United States. While awaiting his overseas application, he married the love of his life, Nena Peregrin Pereyra, after a five-year courtship. They celebrated their civil union in October 1969, followed by a church wedding in December 1969. During this time, they welcomed two children, with a third on the way. Jaime worked for several companies in Manila, concluding his time there at Philippine Match Company.

In 1975, six years after their marriage, Jaime immigrated to Dallas, Texas, USA, where he established a permanent home. He was later joined by Nena and their three children—Karen, Jason, and Jaime Jr.—in May 1979. Upon his arrival in the U.S., Jaime began his career in accounting at Halliburton/Otis Engineering company.

United as a family, Jaime and Nena worked tirelessly to build a better life for themselves and their children. Jaime continuously sought new employment opportunities, while Nena contributed through various roles, including a part-time position at a restaurant and full-time clerk positions for Taylor Publishing Company and the U.S. Postal Service. Their combined dedication ensured their children received a quality education: Karen pursued a career as a nurse, Jason as an engineer, and Jaime Jr. became an artist and commercial truck driver. Through their perseverance, Jaime and Nena achieved their dream of homeownership and enjoyed a comfortable life. Jaime retired from Nokia Phone Company in 2005, receiving Social Security benefits and investments that provided a comfortable life for Nena and himself.

Beyond his professional life, Jaime was a man of diverse interests. He was an avid sportsman, enjoying basketball, tennis, running, and cycling. He was also a master chess player and had a passion for muscle cars. Jaime loved to treasure hunt at garage sales and auctions, always seeking out unique finds. He had a deep appreciation for music, evidenced by his extensive collection of old records, cassettes, and vintage audio equipment. Jaime also liked to own brand-name items and built up large collections of shoes, boots, suits, hats, jewelry, and cars.

Jaime Sr. is preceded in death by four of his siblings: Lydia, Erlinda, Alfredo, and Priscila. He is also survived by his beloved siblings: Digna, Gloria, Cecilia, Concepcion, Renato, Rolando, and Romeo.

Jaime is survived by his devoted wife of over 55 years, Nena Pereyra Bautista; his loving children, Karen Bautista Beck (Allan), Jason Pereyra Bautista (Amy Kies), and Jaime Pereyra Bautista Jr. He also leaves behind eight cherished grandchildren: Zian, Zachary, Zavier, and Zander Kies Bautista; Tyler, Jacob, and Devon Bautista Beck. He is also preceded in death by his cherished granddaughter, Arianna Kies Bautista.

Jaime's life was a testament to his unwavering dedication to family, his remarkable resilience in overcoming hardships, and his passion for life. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.