Melba M. Jabier

Melba M. Jabier

Age 88, of Ocean City, went home to be with the Lord on December 29, 2025. She was born on August 31, 1937, in Dagupan City, Pangasinan, Philippines. Melba graduated from Manila Central University with a degree in Nursing. After serving as a nurse lieutenant in the Philippine Army at the Philippines Medical Center, she moved to the United States in 1962 and settled in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. There, she married Esteban Teologo Jabier, who served as SD2 in the U.S. Navy. Melba spent the bulk of her nursing career at Hahnemann Hospital, where she worked as a registered nurse. A perpetual student, Melba was never afraid to try new things. She possessed a true entrepreneurial spirit, owning retail stores and engaging in catering, sewing, and many other endeavors. She was also a founding member of the Kayumanggi Society of Philadelphia (KSOP), a Filipino community organization and enjoyed playing the piano, volleyball, dancing, and cooking. Melba and Esteban raised their four children in South Philadelphia. In the early 1980s, the family moved to the Jersey Shore, where Melba continued her nursing career in various hospitals and nursing homes. Affectionately known as "Lola" by her grandchildren, Melba had a heartfelt passion for caring for the elderly. After retiring, she cherished spending time with her family, cooking, and entertaining all who were in her presence-especially through her joyful piano playing. Melba Jabier is predeceased by her husband Esteban T. Jabier, Donnamarie Jabier (daughter-in-law), great-grandchildren JaVonni and Arianna Jabier. She is survived by: Siblings-Rebecca Romero, Jaime Manzano, Arturo Manzano (Teresita), Toribio Manzano Jr., and Samuel (Ellen); nieces and nephews. Children-Michael Jabier, Regina Jabier-McHugh (Kevin), Esteban T. Jabier Jr. (Donna), and Dolores Piacente (Sal). Grandchildren-Amanda Funiciello; Christine Blease (Matthew), Diana Fasola, James Capasso; William Maher (Jessica), Justin McHugh (Abigail), Victoria McHugh, Colin McHugh; Kristiana Jabier, Esteban T. Jabier III (Erin), Matias Jabier; Brittany Piacente (David Dunlevy), Antonio Piacente. Great-grandchildren: Liara and Lela Blease, Logan Funiciello, Kenny Fasola, Mia, Jacey, Vincent, Dominic Capasso; Stephen, David, Daniel, and Jonathan Maher; Kataleya and Annika Santiago, Angela Jabier; Dominic Piacente. Great-great-grandchild Aryana Capasso.

A viewing will be held on Tuesday, January 6th from 8 to 10 a.m., at the George H. Wimberg Funeral Home, 1707 New Road, Linwood, NJ 08221. A Mass of Christian burial will follow at 10:30 a.m., at St. Joseph's Church, 606 Shore Road, Somers Point, NJ 08244. Interment will follow at Atlantic County Veterans Cemetery, Estell Manor. Condolences may be extended to the family at ghwimberg.com

George H. Wimberg Funeral Home

Linwood - Ventnor