With deep sorrow and immense love, we announce the passing of Anthony Eaton Gacita, who was born on Sunday, May 9, 1976, at Philippine General Hospital in Manila, Philippines, to his loving parents Evangeline G Eaton and Prudencio Gacita.
Anthony was the youngest of four children at the time, later becoming one of seven siblings. He spent most of his early life in the Philippines, where he attended San Benito Central Elementary School in Siargao, Surigao Del Norte, beginning at six years old. He later attended Bagong Silangan High School in Quezon City, graduating at the age of 17.
He briefly studied at STI College in a computer program associate course but did not complete his degree after migrating to the United States in 1997, following his father.
When Anthony came to America, he arrived with determination and a strong work ethic. He began working as a dishwasher at Muckleshoot Casino. Through dedication and perseverance, he later took classes and became a respected Table Games Dealer — a role he was proud of.
He was cheerful, kind, and sweet by nature. He kept in contact with family, attended gatherings and weddings, and valued connection deeply. He had a bike when he first met Jessica in 1997, living down the road from the casino. Anthony and Jessica later welcomed their daughter, Alyssa Mae Gacita on Thursday March 9th at 10:37 am. He was so excited about being a father, he even took the photo of his newborn child and hung it up on the bulletin board at work. A symbol of how proud he was of himself for being a new dad, and bringing a child into this world.
He shared a close and stable bond with his siblings. He reunited with Justin and Elena after coming to America and even gifted Justin his first pair of Jordans — a gesture that showed his generosity and pride in family.
Anthony loved working on cars, going out to eat, and most of all, spending time with his
daughter.
Family Memories
Kuya Rudy
Some of his favorite memories with Anthony were going fishing together, both liking the same girl at one point in their youth, and feeling proud when Anthony bought his first car in America.
Aute Ihyn - sister
Even after working long overnight shifts at the casino, Anthony would take her to work at the Washington Athletic Club in Seattle. His care for his siblings never stopped, no matter how tired he was.
Justin - brother
Justin shared that he met him when Elena was still in middle school. From the very beginning, he welcomed him with warmth and treated him like family. He even gifted Justin his very first pair of Jordans — something that meant so much, especially knowing how much he loved collecting shoes. That small but powerful gesture showed the kind of man he was — generous, thoughtful, and always wanting to give others something special.
Elena - Sister
Elena remembers that Anthony always showed up for her most important milestones. He attended her high school graduation, college graduation, and her wedding. He never missed her special moments.
Jazmae - youngest sister
As the youngest of the seven siblings, Jazmae met Anthony in 2016 at Elena’s graduation party after she moved to Washington. She remembers how sweet and welcoming he was. She was amazed by how much he and Uncle Rody resembled their father, Grandpa Rody.
She cherished hearing his stories and feeling embraced by a big, loving family.
Jessica (Former Partner and Mother of His Daughter)
Jessica remembers Anthony taking her out on simple dates — bowling, going out to eat, and spending time together. He would always say that the Philippines was “the island of love.” One of her most treasured memories is when Anthony gave Alyssa her first bath in the hospital. He loved that photo so much that he asked for it immediately and proudly hung it up at work.
When Alyssa was two years old, he would teach her how to count to ten in Tagalog. Before bed, he would say, “Tell me Alyssa, count to me in 10.”
From His Daughter, Alyssa
Alyssa remembers driving home in his Honda Civic around 2006 when he picked her up for the weekend. Hip-hop music played through the speakers as he bumped his head to the beat and smiled at her. He looked over and said, “Look Lyss, you bump your head like this to the music.”
He bought her shoes whenever he saw her — white and pink Jordans, grey and orange Nikes. He didn’t like her hair in pigtails and would take them out. He cut her hair on weekends. He showed up for her birthdays, her milestones, and made her feel special. He was supportive. He was present. He was proud to be her father. Anthony Eaton Gacita will be remembered as a hardworking man, a loving father, a devoted brother, and a son who carried his Filipino roots with pride.
Isang matatag at mabuting kaluluwa na mananatili sa aming mga puso magpakailanman.
A strong and beautiful soul who will remain in our hearts forever.
A celebration of life will be announced in the coming months.
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