Gabby Rod Esplanada De La Cruz

Gabby Rod Esplanada De La Cruz, age 44, of New Port Richey, Florida, was born on April 25, 1981, in Cebu City, Philippines, to Gabriel Victor Precillas De La Cruz and Ruthea Esplanada De La Cruz. He passed away on April 18, 2026, in New Port Richey, with his wife of six years, and partner of thirteen years, lovingly by his side.

Gabby grew up in Cebu City and graduated from Cebu Institute of Technology High School in 1999. During his high school years, he became a proud member of Tau Gamma Phi, where he found a deep sense of camaraderie and brotherhood that shaped him throughout his life. Gabby also spent time at Southwestern University, taking several semesters of coursework in Hotel and Restaurant Management.

He later moved to Iloilo, where he reconnected with Marimy, a childhood acquaintance. His bold gesture of moving there won her heart, and Iloilo became his home for many years. In 2017, Gabby moved to Florida, but two years later he returned to the Philippines to marry the love of his life. On June 6, 2019, Gabby and Marimy Jean Gentelizo were married in Iloilo. Gabby worked tirelessly to bring his family to the United States so they could finally be together, and in December 2025, his long‑held wish came true.

Gabby was deeply devoted to his family, especially his children. His love extended to his cousins, aunts, and uncles, with whom he shared close bonds. At gatherings, he was always the life of the party—his booming laughter, quick wit, and endless jokes filling every room he entered. Much like his father, Gabby had a natural ability to make friends wherever he went.

Music was one of Gabby’s greatest passions. He had a powerful voice and a love for heavy metal, rock, and reggae. In Cebu, he was the lead vocalist of 8Let. In Iloilo, he fronted OK GANG, who won the top prize at the CallBox Battle of the Bands 2017. In Florida, he became the lead vocalist of Mariana Trench, performing at various events in the Tampa music scene.

Gabby was also adventurous. In Iloilo, he often surprised his family with weekend trips—whether island hopping, hiking, or simply spending time at the beach. While waiting for his wife to join him in Florida, he shared those same spontaneous beach adventures with his mom. The ocean was his refuge, a place where he felt most at peace.

Introduced to basketball at a young age by his father, Gabby grew up playing alongside his dad and his brother Marc. Together, they played in local leagues and won many games. Even after moving to Florida, Gabby and Marc continued their love for the sport, joining and winning several basketball leagues.

Gabby is survived by his wife, Marimy De La Cruz; his daughters Isis Marithea De La Cruz and Ziva Ruthbel De La Cruz; his son Kalani Gael De La Cruz; his parents Bob and Ruthie; his brothers Ollie, Marc, Jan Jan, Joseph, and Bob Ruth; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Funeral services will be held at 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Morgan-Kaduk Funeral Home, 6025 Trouble Creek Rd, New Port Richey, Florida 34653.