Virginia O. Nanez

Virginia "Virgie" Nanez M.D., daughter of Mariano Octaviano and Ana Talbo, passed away peacefully at her home in Oceanside, N.Y., May 3, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family and friends.

Virgie was known for her generosity, her kindness, and her unique ability to bring people together. She is survived by her devoted husband of 57 years, Ruben; her children, Imelda Octaviano, Marirose Jarvis (Don), and Melanie Mor (Amitzur); and her beloved grandchildren, Gin, Tres, Ruby, and Ana Jarvis, and Anat Mor. She was predeceased by her parents, Mariano and Ana Octaviano; her siblings, Miguel and Nitoy; and her uncle, Father Gregorio Talbo.

Born on September 2, 1938, in Basey, Samar, Philippines, she graduated from Basey Samar Elementary School and Manila Central University Medical School in Caloocan. It was there she met a fellow doctor, Ruben. They married and would go on to build a life and a family together.

Virgie began her career as a physician in her hometown, then moved to the United States to continue her medical training at St. John's Episcopal Hospital in New York. Her professional journey included dedicated service at Wyckoff Hospital, Mid Island Hospital, and she taught medical residents at a clinic in Queens. She ultimately spent most of her career at NYU Medical Center and Bellevue Hospital in New York City, where she worked in Internal Medicine for many years until her retirement in 2008.

A woman of deep faith and community spirit, Virgie was a longtime parishioner at St. Anthony's Roman Catholic Church in Oceanside, NY. She also remained proudly connected to her roots, serving as a member of a professional sorority in Basey, which was dedicated to aiding the impoverished. She also served as President (Hermana Mayor) of the Basaynon Katig Uban of Eastern USA organization, where she spearheaded numerous charitable initiatives.

She was the heart of every gathering, a Filipina woman whose love for family and friends knew no bounds. Her home was always open, filled with laughter, music, dancing, and the comforting warmth she gave so freely to everyone. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Visitation will be held at Towers Funeral Home in Oceanside, NY on May 14th and 15th, 2026 from 4 - 8 PM, with a rosary prayed at 6 PM both days. Vigil Service (Wake) will be said on May 15, 2026 at 7 PM.

Funeral Mass will take place at St. Christopher's Roman Catholic Church in Baldwin NY on May 16, 2026, at 11 AM. Further details can be found by visiting towersfuneralhomeny.com