Fatima Bulatao Palaganas

Fatima Bulatao Palaganas, 23, of Nokomis, Florida, passed away on August 22, 2025. Born on July 8, 2002, in the Philippines, Fatima brought joy, love, and adventure to all who knew her. She will be remembered as positive, sweet, jolly, and sometimes just a little bit sly.

Fatima loved walking and biking—whether or not she had permission—and music filled her days. She had a true passion for learning, always eager to explore and absorb all she could. Though she faced many hidden challenges, her life was a testament to resilience and faith. Doctors did not expect her to live past early childhood, but through countless miracles and the grace of God, Fatima lived 23 vibrant years, blessing her family and all those around her.

She was a proud founding member of the Palaganas Sisterhood of Fun and Adventure, San Carlos City, Pangasinan chapter, where she hosted meetings, led picnics, and guided others into joyful adventures. Known for sneaking out to explore the world, entertaining others, and showering people with exceptional kindness, Fatima left a legacy of curiosity and laughter.

Her favorite saying was:

“Earn, save, and give all that you can.”

Fatima embodied this, always willing to help, always saving what she could, and sharing whatever she had. She especially loved her family, her many friends both young and old, and anyone who shared her love for art, Legos, or music. If you had snacks or soda, you might have even been fast-tracked into her Sisterhood—even if you weren’t a sister.

In the Philippines, she adored her dog Huggy, who famously slept in a frying pan. After moving to the U.S., she took on the title of Chief Social Officer of her family’s Bobo Kitten Ranch, where her playful spirit continued to shine.

Ever the adventurer, Fatima was known to slip out under the light of a full moon, picking locks with amateur skill for a midnight bike ride, a visit to the cornfield, or a quick trip to 7-Eleven. In later years, her adventures included early-morning Dunkin’ runs or rides to Publix, always seeking joy in the everyday. She showed her family that life is best lived in the present, offering kindness while you can and treasuring time with loved ones.

Above all, Fatima will be remembered as a bundle of joy who was always ready for the next adventure. She gave freely, lived selflessly, and filled every room with her warmth. Though her absence leaves an immeasurable void, her family finds comfort knowing she is now with Jesus Christ, embarking on a new and eternal adventure.

A celebration of Fatima’s life will be held in Bradenton, FL this coming Saturday August 30th, 2025 at 11am at Hope Lutheran Church (4635 26th Street West, Bradenton, FL 34207). Here is the link the webcast, which will begin at 10:30am. In her honor, Fatima wishes that friends and family would kindly spend time helping others in need, carrying forward her legacy of generosity.

Photos and videos of Fatima and her loved ones are available here.

The family wishes to thank all who shared their time and love with their special child, little princess Fatima.