Niely H. Genio

Niely Hidalgo Genio
December 21, 1929 – December 9, 2025

With deep love and gratitude, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Niely Hidalgo Genio, who entered eternal rest on December 9, 2025, at the age of 95.

Niely lived a life defined by resilience, intellect, and unwavering devotion to her family. She was born in Daet, Camarines Norte, Philippines, in 1929, and survived her childhood during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines in World War II—an experience that profoundly shaped her strength, perseverance, and deep faith throughout her life.

After the war, her parents, Pedro Hidalgo and Jacinta Lumbes, were instrumental in ensuring she received a higher education. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Santo Tomas (UST) in Manila—Asia’s oldest existing university, founded in 1611, and one of the most prestigious Catholic and Royal universities in the Philippines.

Niely dedicated her early career to education, teaching science, biology, chemistry, mathematics, and language. She served in leadership roles in the Philippines including Principal, Vice Principal, and Department Head, positions she cherished deeply. Throughout her life, she often spoke fondly of her students, many of whom she remained in contact with for years.

In the early 1970s, Niely made the courageous decision to immigrate to the United States to join her husband, who had come to America a year earlier. This difficult choice required her to leave her seven children in the care of family for several years while she worked tirelessly to save money to reunite them. Despite holding a respected degree, finding suitable work proved challenging, as her education was not recognized for higher-paying positions. Undeterred, she took on various jobs in casinos, continuing to save and placing her faith in God.

Her prayers were answered in an extraordinary way when, while waiting for a ride home, she placed a 50-cent bet on Keno and won a significant jackpot. Within just two years—1973 and 1974—she fulfilled her greatest mission: bringing all seven of her children to the United States, opening doors to opportunity and hope for their futures.

Niely later retired from the University of Nevada, Reno, at the age of 70. She eventually settled in Las Vegas, where she continued to nurture her family and those around her with quiet strength, wisdom, and generosity.

She found joy in life’s simple pleasures—gardening, cooking, sewing, and crossword puzzles— but her greatest joy was always her family. She fiercely loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, many of whom she babysat whenever she could, giving freely of her time, patience, and love.

Niely was preceded in death by her beloved husband, with whom she shared 67 years of marriage, who passed away two years ago. We take comfort in knowing that she is now reunited with him.

She is survived by her seven children, twelve grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and 4 siblings

Five sons and their spouses:
Lemuel and Margarita Genio
Lino and Daisy Genio
Faustino Genio Jr.
Wendell Genio
Wilson Genio

Two daughters and their spouses:
Minelli and Steve McDougall
Sheila and Mark Looney

Twelve grandchildren:
Pamela Ennis, Cheryl Moreno, Trevor McDougall, Therese Wogberg, Tyler Ann Curran, Dayna
Genio, Gabrielle Looney, Brandon Looney, Ethan Genio, Casey Genio, Cayden Looney, and Adam Genio

Nine great-grandchildren:
Ava, Emily, Everly, Parker, London, Ophelia, Bishop, Baron, and Juniper

She is also survived by her four siblings:
Teresita Dulfo, Fely Bernaldez, Salvador Lumbes, and Merlin Hidalgo.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to your local church in her honor. 
Flowers may also be sent to: 3007 Hardin Drive, Henderson, NV 89074.

A viewing and service will be held on Sunday, December 21, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
at Davis Funeral Home Chapel, 6200 S. Eastern Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89119