Beloved Paris Nurse Brigida Rian Dies at 77

Brigida Tabangcora Tacuyan Rian, a longtime nurse at Paris Regional Medical Center, is remembered for her faith, family, and love of music and nature.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Brigida Tabangcora Tacuyan Rian, a beloved nurse who worked at Paris Regional Medical Center for 42 years, passed away on February 1, 2026 at the age of 77. Rian was born in the Philippines in 1948 and came to the United States in 1974, eventually settling in Paris, Texas with her husband Levi. She was known for her deep Catholic faith, her joy and love of music, and her devotion to her family, community, and patients.

Why it matters

Rian's life story reflects the experiences of many Filipino nurses who immigrated to the United States in the 1970s, helping to fill critical healthcare staffing needs. Her decades of service at the local hospital made her a beloved figure in the Paris community, and her passing is mourned by those whose lives she touched through her nursing work and her vibrant personality.

The details

Rian earned her nursing degree in the Philippines in 1970 before immigrating to the United States four years later. She first worked in Atlanta, Georgia before moving to Paris, Texas in 1976 to join the nursing staff at St. Joseph Hospital (now Paris Regional Medical Center). Rian would go on to work at the hospital for over four decades before retiring in 2020. In Paris, she met her husband Levi, a pig farmer from Ohio, and the couple had one daughter together. Rian was known for her deep Catholic faith, her love of music and dancing, and her passion for gardening and caring for animals.

  • Rian was born on October 8, 1948 in Nagba, Tabungan, Iloilo, Philippines.
  • She earned her nursing degree in 1970 from St. Anne's Hospital and School of Nursing in Manila.
  • Rian immigrated to the United States in 1974 and began working as a nurse in Atlanta, Georgia.
  • In 1976, Rian moved to Paris, Texas to work at St. Joseph Hospital (now Paris Regional Medical Center).
  • Rian retired from Paris Regional Medical Center in 2020 after 42 years of service.

The players

Brigida Tabangcora Tacuyan Rian

A beloved nurse who worked at Paris Regional Medical Center for 42 years before retiring in 2020. She was known for her deep Catholic faith, joy, and love of music, nature, and her family.

Levi Rian

Brigida Rian's husband, a pig farmer from Ohio who she met and married while living in Paris, Texas.

Christine Renee Rian

Brigida and Levi Rian's daughter.

Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church

The church where Brigida Rian was an active member of the choir.

Paris Regional Medical Center

The hospital where Brigida Rian worked as a nurse for 42 years before retiring in 2020.

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What’s next

Brigida Rian's funeral services will be held on February 13-14, 2026 in Paris, Texas, including a rosary and visitation at Fry-Gibbs Funeral Home, and a Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church.

The takeaway

Brigida Rian's life and legacy as a devoted nurse, faithful parishioner, and beloved community member in Paris, Texas serves as an inspiring example of the positive impact that immigrant healthcare workers can have on local communities through decades of compassionate service.