Corazon Alba

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Corazon Leyritana Alba, affectionately known to all as Tita Cora. She died peacefully on August 3, 2025, in Glenview, Illinois. Corazon was born on January 9, 1943, in Mexico, Pampanga, Philippines to Francisco Gomez Castro and Pelicula Leyritana. Our mother exemplified strength, determination, and resilience throughout her life. A dedicated educator, she earned her master’s degree in education and taught in Ozamiz, Misamis Occidental, Philippines, and later worked in the family textile business. With our family, she moved to Ikebukuro, Tokyo, Japan in 1978, and later Chicago, Illinois where she lived until the time of her death.

In Chicago, Corazon worked as a dedicated municipal employee until her retirement in 2007. She enjoyed spending time with her friends and family, traveling the world, and preparing her beloved native Filipino dishes. Corazon’s infectious smile and her unwavering love for her family are the legacies she will forever leave behind. She is survived by her daughter Michelle Lyons, her son Patrick Lyons, her grandchildren Ethan and Leila, her brother Joey Castro (Lita), her sister Teresita Castro, 17 nieces and nephews, and countless friends.

Family will receive friends on Sunday, August 17, 2025, from 3-8PM at Benson Family Funeral Home, 3224 W. Montrose Avenue, Chicago, Illinois (on the corner of Sawyer and Montrose). Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, August 18, 2025, at 10AM at Saint Ita Catholic Church, 5500 N. Broadway Chicago, Illinois.

Memorial tributes may be made to: The American Kidney Fund and The Philippine Red Cross.

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