Carmen Tan Cua's Obituary
Carmen Tan Cua, 87, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2025, at her residence in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She was born on April 14, 1938, in La Paz, Leyte, Philippines, to Guan Sen Cua and Juanita Tan (Lim) Cua.
Carmen was a woman of remarkable intellect and determination. She earned her Master's degree in Chemistry from Montana State University and dedicated much of her life to education. In the Philippines, she taught at the Chinese School, where she instructed students in all subjects, with a particular focus on mathematics at the high school level. Her love of learning extended beyond the classroom, as she also taught her nieces and nephews traditional Chinese poems, sharing her cultural heritage with the next generation.
In 1963, Carmen moved to the United States to further her studies and to be closer to her beloved sister. The two sisters shared a deep bond and continued their lifelong love of learning together, taking music classes at Tulsa Community College.
Music was one of Carmen's greatest passions. She was an accomplished pianist with a deep appreciation for classical music, particularly the works of Chopin, her favorite composer. Despite a lifelong struggle with rheumatoid arthritis, Carmen's determination and strength of spirit never wavered. She continued to play piano throughout her life, refusing to let physical challenges diminish her joy in creating beautiful music.
Those who knew Carmen would describe her as determined and competitive, traits that served her well in her favorite pastime of playing mahjong, where she delighted in keeping careful track of her winnings. She was devoted to her cherished companion, Tootsie, who brought her great joy. Carmen also had a well-known fondness for sweets, particularly cookies and pecan sandies.
Carmen's legacy lives on through the countless students she taught, the family members she mentored, and the music that filled her home. Her remarkable resilience in the face of physical challenges, her dedication to education, and her zest for life will be remembered by all who knew her.
A Mass of Christian Burial honoring Carmen will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at St. Clement of Rome Catholic Church.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Hospice of Green Country in Tulsa in Carmen's honor.
What’s your fondest memory of Carmen?
What’s a lesson you learned from Carmen?
Share a story where Carmen's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Carmen you’ll never forget.
How did Carmen make you smile?