Martina Boco Gage - Obituary

artina "Tina" Gage, devoted wife, mother and grandmother passed away peacefully on Monday, December 15, 2025, at the age of 94, surrounded by her family. Tina lived an extraordinary life. The youngest of eight children, Tina was born in Guiuan, Eastern Samar, Philippines in 1931. At 20 years of age she married, Feliciano, a Filipino serving in the US Navy. Together they built a new life. In 1957, with three children under the age of three, Tina left her home and family, and traveled to Washington, D.C.to join her husband. Together they lived the American Dream. Feliciano retired from the Navy and opened Frank’s Barber Shop in Accokeek, MD. Tina obtained her CNA and worked full-time while also working as a seamstress on the side. Together they bought a home and raised their family in Forest Heights, MD. Tina was a dedicated and loving mother to her five children: Feliciano Jr., Lina, Ben, Christine, and Tony, ten grandchildren and 3 greatgrandchildren. She was the matriarch of her family. To others, she held the loving title of Auntie, Ninang, Kumadre, and Nanay. She touched the lives of so many people. In addition to family, Tina's other passion lay in fostering a vibrant community. She embodied the “Mabuhay Spirit”. In the early 1960’s with her Filipina compatriots, Tina was a founding member of the Samar-Leyte Society of Washington, D.C. The organization offered a warm welcome to new Filipino immigrants and visitors. Her home in Forest Heights, MD, became a gathering place, where for years she and her husband welcomed scores of guests to celebrate holidays and share Filipino food and culture. Tina's commitment to community extended to her role as a founding member of the Santo Rosario Fiesta of Guiuananons, a tradition that recently marked its 51st anniversary. A devout Catholic, Tina's faith was a central part of her life, guiding her with strength and grace. She was preceded in death by her granddaughter, Avery, and her husband, Feliciano, who passed away in 1999 and is buried at Arlington National Cemetery. Tina's life was a testament to the power of a generous spirit and an unwavering commitment to family and community. She leaves behind a legacy of strength, kindness, and hospitality that will be cherished and remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Relatives and friends are invited to gather for Martina's Life Celebration on Monday, March 9, 2026 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 P.M. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill MD 20745. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, March 10, 2026 at 11 A.M. at St. Columba Catholic Church, 7800 Livingston Road, Oxon Hill MD 20745. Interment to follow the service at 2 P.M. at Arlington National Cemetery, 1 Memorial Drive, Arlington VA 22211. Please note that Arlington National Cemetery is a Federal Installation which requires presentation of a REAL ID by everyone over the age of 16 for entry.