Eugene Orden Obillo

Eugene Obillo

March 26, 1944–September 14, 2025

Born on March 26, 1944, to Jose Orden and Marjorie Dell Obillo, Eugene was the second child in the family, following his sister, Bettie. He grew up in Hawthorne, California, where his early years were filled with music, friendship, and stories that would later become family treasures.

Eugene attended Hawthorne High School, where he took great pride in being part of a vibrant musical community. One of his fondest memories was performing with his high school band at the Hollywood Bowl, recalling with laughter how he had to keep his balance on the rotating stage—a story he loved to tell throughout his life.

Eugene’s faith and heart led him to the Filipino Christian Church in Los Angeles, where he met the love of his life, Eliya. Their shared values, humor, and devotion became the foundation of a lifelong partnership built on faith, love, and service.

Eugene went on to earn his degree from Pepperdine University in Los Angeles. He loved sharing stories of the old Pepperdine campus and how different it was from today’s Malibu setting. During that time, he and Eliya lived in Married Housing, where daily life was filled with laughter and memorable moments—like being able to look up through the pipes and see into the apartment above, or the time a heavy rainstorm flooded his car.

Eugene found his true calling as a teacher, a career that reflected both his intellect and compassion. His love for learning and his dedication to his students were matched only by his pride in his family. He went on to earn his Master’s degree from California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) alongside his wife Eliya—a milestone made even more meaningful because their two sons watched from the audience, wearing tennis shoes with their suits. In a beautiful echo of that day, both of his sons would later graduate with their own master’s degrees on the same day, a full-circle moment that reflected the family’s shared commitment to education and perseverance.

Eugene’s greatest joy came from his family. He was overjoyed to see his sons find happiness in marriage—Brent to Marie, and Kevin to Yolanda—and he was deeply proud of the lives they built. His heart was fullest as a grandfather to Corina and Phoenix, whom he adored beyond measure.

He and Eliya shared a life of adventure and devotion. Together, they became Elite cruisers with Princess Cruise Lines, exploring the world side by side and creating countless memories on the open sea. One of Eugene’s favorite pastimes during those cruises was attending the art auctions—and every voyage, Eliya would lovingly relent at least once, allowing him to bring home a treasured piece of art that captured the joy of their travels.

Their faith was the anchor of their lives. As devoted Christians, Eugene and Eliya faithfully served their community, preparing and serving lunch once a month in Los Angeles for more than three decades—an act of compassion that reflected their love for God and others.

Eugene’s legacy as a father lives on through the humor, love, and work ethic he instilled in his children. He looked forward to every moment spent with his family, especially time shared with his beloved wife, whom he loved deeply and unconditionally. His life was one of laughter, faith, and steadfast devotion—a true testament to a man who lived fully, loved greatly, and was full of faith.