Filipina nurse killed in California honored in funeral service

Tabuk City, Kalinga – Family and friends of Novyrose Gabat Mejia, the Filipina nurse killed in a road accident in the United States, gathered to honor her life and contributions, particularly to healthcare, during her funeral service on December 30, 2025 (Pacific Time).

Mejia, a graduate of the University of Baguio, was struck by a vehicle while walking to work on December 13, 2025. The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office reported that the impact caused her to fall and hit her head on the ground.

She was initially treated at the VA Medical Center’s emergency room and later transferred to the UC Davis Medical Center for further care. However, she succumbed to a severe head injury on December 16.

The 57-year-old Filipina nurse and mother of two completed Dentistry at UB and practiced her profession in Baguio City before migrating to the USA with her family.

Mejia was described as having lived her life selflessly, dedicating herself to the care of others.

“Novy lived a life rooted in faith, compassion, and service. As a devoted Catholic and a selfless nurse, she spent her life caring for others—comforting the sick, advocating for her patients, and answering God’s call to serve with humility and grace. She gave endlessly of herself, often putting others before her own needs,” her family wrote on the GoFundMe page they created to raise funds to cover the overwhelming financial burden.

As of January 2, 2026, the family had raised $50,824 through 718 donations.

The viewing of her remains was held on December 29, 2025 (Pacific Time) at East Lawn Memorial, while her funeral service was conducted the following day at the Good Shepherd Catholic Church.