KUALA LUMPUR – Jacquita Gonzales, the wife of MH370 in-flight supervisor Patrick Gomes, has passed away at the age of 62. Her death was confirmed in a heartfelt post shared on the MH370 Families Facebook group earlier today.
Gonzales was widely known for her unwavering advocacy following the tragic disappearance of Malaysia Airlines flight MH370, which vanished from radar on March 8, 2014, shortly after departing Kuala Lumpur.
Her husband was among the 239 passengers and crew on board the Beijing-bound flight, which remains one of the world’s greatest aviation mysteries.
The MH370 Families Facebook group paid tribute to Jacquita, describing her as “a vibrant and dynamic member of Voice370,” the advocacy group for the families of the missing crew.
“It is with deep sadness that we share this news,” the statement read.
“Jacquita was always at the forefront of our efforts and a central figure representing the crew family members.
“She touched so many of our lives with her love, warmth, kindness, and humility.
“She will be deeply missed by all of us who knew her. Let us keep her and her family in our prayers during this difficult time.”
In the years following the disappearance of MH370, Gonzales became a powerful voice for those who lost loved ones, tirelessly campaigning for answers.
She was a regular presence in the media, particularly during the 10th anniversary of the tragedy in 2024.
In an interview with BenarNews at that time, Gonzales spoke candidly about her search for closure, saying, “I still pine for closure, but I have to face the reality that he is no longer with us.”
Despite the overwhelming grief, Gonzales clung to a glimmer of hope in recent months.
During the anniversary, she and other victims’ relatives expressed renewed optimism after Transport Minister Anthony Loke assured them that efforts to locate the missing aircraft might be resumed.
Loke revealed plans to meet with Ocean Infinity Ltd., the US-based seabed exploration company, which had conducted a lengthy but ultimately fruitless search in 2018.
He promised that any new search would be considered by the cabinet, with costs only incurred if the plane was found.
Earlier this month, Loke announced that the government had signed an agreement with Ocean Infinity to resume the search for MH370.
However, Loke also noted that the operation was temporarily paused due to adverse weather conditions and is expected to resume later this year, with plans to continue until the aircraft is found.
The disappearance of MH370 remains an open wound for those who lost loved ones, and Jacquita’s passing is a devastating blow to the MH370 Families community, who had long looked to her for leadership and support.
Jacquita leaves behind a legacy as a tireless advocate for the families of those lost on MH370.
Her commitment to finding the truth and ensuring her husband’s memory was never forgotten has made her a central figure in the ongoing struggle for answers. — April 28, 2025