Silina Taff passed away as gracefully as she lived, surrounded by friends.
Born in Shanghai, her family escaped to Hong Kong during the Chinese Revolution. She excelled at school, winning scholarships to attend UC Berkeley. This was followed by marriage to Bruce and a move to Northern California where the two welcomed their children Alisha, Aysha and Anthony.
The fortuitous move to the Central Coast in 1979 allowed Silina to pursue a banking career, making lifelong friends and helping many achieve their dreams. Along the way, she brought up her family with an unbelievable work ethic, amazing home-cooked meals, “secret” Chinese medicine, and many rescue pets. Retirement in 2010 brought a move to Florida, building her dream home and raising orchids and butterflies.
The stunning diagnosis of rapidly progressive ALS led to Silina’s return to California, enduring its effects with incredible grace and dignity. Her family is so grateful to have been able to spend those last few months in her daily company, and will miss her wise words, laughter, and unbelievable strength.
Silina is survived by her devoted husband of 52 years, their children, grandchildren Kyanne, Naia, Tim, Xochi, and Betty; and her dogs Sadie and Xiao Bao (Little Bun). We thank the Jacksonville Mayo Clinic and Central Coast Hospice for their loving kindness and care during this devastating time. No services will be held per Silina’s request. In lieu of remembrances, please consider donating to the ALS Association, Mayo Clinic, or your favorite botanical garden in her memory.
