Our precious mother, Isabel Varela, passed away on Monday February 27th, 2023 at the age of 85.
She was born in Tela, Honduras and immigrated to the United States on 1994. Isabel devoted her life to her 11 children. “Chavela” as she was known by her friends is survived by her husband of 58 years, Lloyd; her 11 children (Miriam, Saadia, Alfredo, Maribel, Jose, Claritza, Marvin, Ivania, Martha, Gicela, Carlos); 21 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be Friday, March 3 from 4-8pm at Joseph A. Lucchese Funeral Home, 726 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx. Family and friends wishing to attend the visitation virtually may do so by clicking the following link at any time during the visiting hours Varela Virtual Visitation Mass of Christian burial will be Saturday, March 4 at 10am at Our Lady of Solace Church, 731 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx. Interment will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery, East 233rd Street & Webster Avenue, Bronx.
Never having met “Chavela” before may have been a regret that could never be overcome, if I had not known her Johnson kids, my cousins. And met two of her other kids on the day before her transition from this world. I can tell she was all love and compassion – Alfredo & other son (forgot his name)—were both all love and all humility, which I am sure permeates through all eleven. Her life will carry forth through the lives of all her kids. I will be praying for you all but your bond is very obvious and very strong. Hold onto each other and define the true measure of family by bonding with love and devotion —you will be okay within due time. God bless.