Liberty Hernandez Verzo
Obituary

With heavy hearts and wonderful memories, we celebrate the life of Liberty Hernandez Verzo, who was called home to be with our Lord on June 12, 2026, at 88 years old.

Whether you knew her as Libby, Mama Verzo, Mrs. Verzo, or simply as Mama, her presence touched the lives of countless individuals. She is reunited with her beloved husband of 63 years, Dr. Renato R. Verzo. Together, they are survived by their five children, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Liberty, born on July 18, 1937, in Labo, Camarines Norte, Philippines, was the youngest of ten children to Agripina Villafuerte and Alejo Hernandez. Throughout her elementary and high school years, she was an active member of a folk-dance group and was even sent to the city of Manila to represent the 4H Club. Liberty graduated from the University of Santo Tomas in Manila with two degrees: Education and Business. Throughout her time in the Philippines, she pursued various business ventures. She sold food, clothes, and even bred puppies. After her marriage, she supported her husband in his medical clinic and assisted with his political career. Despite her busy schedule, she continued to take on multiple business roles to raise her five children.

In 1990, Liberty relocated to Los Angeles, California and began working as a care giver. She also sold peanuts and other food products at local food markets. Liberty was always up for a challenge and enjoyed a variety of activities, including cooking, gardening, playing at casinos, partying, and dancing. Her specialty dishes were often requested by family and friends for parties. Her competitive spirit was evident in her love for watching competition shows such as Dancing with the Stars and game shows like Jeopardy!, where she would engage as if she were a contestant herself. She loved to win. Traveling to Las Vegas and other casinos to play brought her immense joy. She could stay on the slot machines until the sun came up, literally. Her passion for gardening reflected the care and love she carried in her heart. When she owned her home, her backyard flourished with an abundance of fruits, vegetables, and various plants. She found immense joy in caring for the birds that visited her yard, often sitting in her backyard and admiring them enjoying the bird bath and feeders she had set up. Her favorite flowers were purple orchids.

Liberty, a sharp and vibrant individual, enjoyed reading the newspaper, watching TV, reading People magazine, and scrapbooking, all of which she believed were essential for mental stimulation. But most of all, she LOVED watching basketball. She was always loyal to her team, the Los Angeles Lakers, as she never missed a game. Her passion for basketball was evident in her ability to recall every player’s name, statistics, and even their life stories.

After a brief stay in the Philippines, Liberty resided at El Encanto Healthcare and Habilitation Center for three years, where she received exceptional care. Her room was always decorated with orchids. The staff often took the residents shopping, and she was renowned for her shopping skills, always finding the best deals. She emerged victorious in games and activities, particularly BINGO. Her strong personality earned her the position of president of the council, where residents gathered to provide feedback to the staff. Under her leadership, residents noticed a positive change, especially in the quality of food. She attended mass every Sunday at St. Martha Catholic Church and when she was not mobile to do so, she would hear mass virtually and also attend bible study held at El Encanto.

No matter the day or occasion, she believed in looking and feeling her best. Liberty carried herself gracefully, waking up every day, putting her hair in rollers and applying her makeup. She had her go-to nail tech at Angelic Nails, where she would have her manicure and pedicure. Her timeless style and attention to detail made her unforgettable.

We will forever cherish Liberty’s captivating stories, infectious laughter, and the remarkable strength of her personality. Her presence brought immense joy to many, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want… Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” - Psalm 23:1 6