Polly Arzaga

Polly Arzaga, a remarkable woman whose life was defined by love, service, and dedication, passed away peacefully with family on February 26, 2026. She was 95 years old.

Born as Apolonia Bobila on May 21, 1930, in the Philippines, Polly’s journey was one of resilience and achievement. She graduated from the University of the East in Manila before embarking on a life that would leave an indelible mark on her family and community. In 1952, she married the love of her life, Quirino Arzaga. Together with their eldest child Arthur, they immigrated to San Francisco in 1955 to begin a new chapter filled with promise and opportunity.

Polly’s professional career was distinguished by her role as Auditor of Disbursements at Pacific Bell, where she worked diligently until her retirement in 1990. Beyond her corporate career, Polly was an accomplished entrepreneur as the president and proprietor of Leisure Town Villa Properties. Her leadership extended far beyond business; she was a trailblazer in community service and advocacy.

A devoted servant to her faith and community, Polly served as lector and founded FAASTAR at Star of the Sea Church. She also held positions on the boards of Our Lady of Fatima and Santo Niño de Cebu U.S.A., reflecting her deep commitment to her spiritual beliefs. Her passion for helping others led her to serve on the Board of the YWCA for San Francisco, San Mateo, and Marin Counties. Polly’s influence reached even further through her roles as former president of several organizations: Fil-Am Council of San Francisco, Fil-Am Lion's Club of San Francisco, and Pearl of The Orient Club.

Polly’s dedication to community service was evident in her early efforts to develop programs that provided employment opportunities for seniors and youth. Her tireless work enriched countless lives and demonstrated her unwavering belief in uplifting those around her.

Despite her many accomplishments, Polly’s greatest joy came from her family. She was a loving mother to her four children: Arthur, Annette, Arnold, and Andrew. Her legacy continues through her five grandchildren—Arthur Jr., Aundrea, Jill, Sean, and Toni—as well as her great-grandchildren Brienna, Austin, Calista, Carson, and Joey. Polly also cherished her three great-great-grandchildren: Ozias, Aniyah, and James. She is survived by her beloved sisters and numerous nieces and nephews who will forever hold fond memories of their time together.

Polly was preceded in death by her loving husband Quirino and two great-grandchildren Alexis and Ethan. Their reunion in heaven brings comfort to those who mourn her passing.

In addition to being a devoted family matriarch and community leader, Polly found solace in gardening—a passion that brought beauty into both her home and heart. She especially loved tending to her roses and orchids with care and attention.

Polly lived an extraordinary life filled with purpose and love. She was known for being strong-willed yet compassionate—a woman whose intelligence and independence inspired everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her life story is one of perseverance through challenges while embracing every opportunity to make a difference.

May Polly Arzaga’s memory be a source of comfort to all who knew her. Her legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched with kindness, wisdom, and generosity.

A Rosary will be held on
March 15, 2026, from 03:30 PM to 06:30 PM
McAvoy O'Hara Evergreen Mortuary
4545 Geary Blvd San Francisco

A Funeral Mass will be held on
March 16, 2026, at 10:00 AM
Star of The Sea Church
4420 Geary Blvd. San Francisco