Lorelei “Lai” Barabad Octavo passed away peacefully on August 12, 2025, surrounded by family and friends, after a short battle with leukemia. True to her nature, Lai remained upbeat until the very end, holding on to her resilience, her fighting spirit, and her love for conversation. As many of you know, Lai could talk a mile a minute, and she did so with joy.

Born in San Andres Bukid, Philippines, Lai immigrated to the United States with her mother in December 1993 at the age of 12. She attended T.R. Pollicita Middle School and later graduated from Jefferson High School, Class of 1999, in Daly City. While in high school, she joined the original crew that opened the very first Jollibee in the United States in 1998, a memory she cherished.

Proud to be a “City” girl, Lai loved playing tourist in San Francisco, the city she adored most. She worked for Alcatraz Cruises, a role that allowed her to connect with people from all over the country and fuel her love of travel. Though her favorite color was purple, she was often seen in orange and black or red and gold, proudly representing her beloved SF Giants and SF 49ers.

Lai lived life with fullness and joy. She sang her heart out whenever she felt like it, with or without a microphone. She danced even when everyone was watching. She was funny, she forgave quickly, and she loved deeply without hesitation. Lai was brave and fearless until her final moments.

She is survived by her mother, grandmother, father, half-brother, half-sister, and stepmother.

On behalf of the family, we extend our deepest and most heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped give Lorelei the sweetest homegoing. Your love for her will never be forgotten.

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