Perla Gascon Bermejo, lovingly known as “Pearl,” passed away peacefully on May 24, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family and friends after a courageous battle with cancer. In her final days, she was comforted by the presence of countless loved ones who brought her peace, joy, and unwavering support.

Born in Binangonan, Philippines, Perla was the only daughter among seven brothers. She carried that strength and spirit throughout her life — bold, warm, resilient, and full of life. She attended the University of Santo Tomas and early in her career worked at the Asian Social Institute and Winthrop-Stearns in Manila before beginning a new chapter in the United States.

On December 17, 1978, she married Dan Bermejo, beginning a marriage that spanned nearly 48 years. Together they built a life centered in family, love, and community, eventually immigrating to Brandon, Florida in 1986, where they raised their three children.

Perla devoted 28 years to Brandon Regional Hospital, where she became a beloved presence in the Women’s Center and Baby Suites. She cared for people at both the beginning and end of life and had a rare gift for comforting others. Known for her compassion, generosity, and gentle spirit, she made people feel safe, cared for, and less alone during life’s most vulnerable moments. She always placed the needs of others before her own.

Outside of work, Perla brought people together wherever she went. Her love language was cooking and sharing Filipino cuisine. She loved sewing, crocheting, storytelling, karaoke, and gathering with family and friends. A passionate photographer, Perla documented every stage of life, capturing both milestone moments and the quiet beauty of everyday life. She expressed her love freely through warm hugs and kisses, holding hands, and never letting the people she loved leave without reminding them how much they meant to her. Deeply spiritual and devoted to her Catholic faith, she had the brightest smile in the room, a magnetic personality, and a heart of gold that made everyone feel welcome and loved.

Above all else, Perla was the heart and life force of her family — a true matriarch who held generations together. She loved fiercely, cared deeply, and gave endlessly.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Dan Bermejo; her children Andy Bermejo, Tess Bermejo Boumel (Adam Boumel), and Grace Bermejo (Moe Escandar); her cherished grandchildren Jacob Boumel, Ella Boumel, and Adrienne Escandar; and her brothers Rodrigo Gascon, Jesse Gascon, and Rolly Gascon.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Marciana and Gregorio Gascon, Sr., and her brothers Danny Gascon, Willy Gascon, Gregg Gascon Jr., and Ramon Gascon.

The family would like to thank the many friends, relatives, and members of the community who surrounded Perla and her family with love, prayers, and support during this difficult time. Special thanks to Rudy, Jenny, Arielle, and Ezra Bermejo for traveling from London to be by the family’s side, and to her friends and colleagues at Brandon Hospital, who were such an important part of her life.

In honoring Perla’s life, the family asks that you carry forward her spirit of generosity and care by showing kindness to others, sharing a meal, offering comfort, or simply being present for someone in need.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at Nativity Catholic Church.Visitation: 10:15 AMFuneral Mass: 11:00 AM