Sherlita Mercado Jarlega

Sherlita "Shirley" Mercado Jarlega was born on May 5, 1956, in Silay City, Negros Occidental, Philippines. She was the second of five children to her loving parents, Rosalina and Leopoldo.
As a child, Shirley was known as the "favorite niece" of the family, someone who often "got what she wanted"-but what she wanted most was to care for and uplift those around her. Raised in the church, she carried her deep faith throughout her life. Her siblings remember her as playful, competitive in games of hopscotch and tag, and always surrounded by friends. Though she loved winning, her generous heart earned her the reputation of being "the one who shares with all."
During her teenage years, Shirley developed a keen eye for fashion. She loved being the first to wear the latest styles in clothes, shoes, and accessories, often sharing them with her sisters-memories they continue to cherish.
As a young adult, Shirley worked for over 16 years at one of Manila's finest pharmacies, while also pursuing her creative side through culinary school. In 1989, her nurturing spirit brought her to California, where she began caring for children as a nanny. She first joined the Pelaez family, caring for Carla, Nicky, and Ria, before moving on to work for Sonia and Farro Essalat and their children Camron and Sam. She later became a beloved part of the Dean family, where for more than 30 years she helped Christine and Gordon raise their three boys, Gordon Jr., Jackson, and Robby. At this time, Shirley also supported Marianne Byerwalter and family, caring for Joseph, Daniel, and Neal over 13 years. To each of these families, Shirley was more than a caregiver-she was family.
In her free time, Shirley loved cheering on her favorite teams-the Golden State Warriors, San Francisco Giants, and 49ers. On her quieter days, she could be found relaxing at home, while on her livelier ones, she enjoyed shopping for her next fashion-forward find. No matter where life took her, she never lost sight of her greatest devotion: providing for and supporting her family back home in the Philippines.
Shirley is survived by her four sisters-Elizabeth, Elena, Elsie, and Elma-along with many cherished relatives in the Philippines, with whom she maintained close bonds throughout her life.