Elizabeth Vargis
Elizabeth Vargis
1967-04-21 — 2023-12-07
George Washington Cemetery
Beloved Wife, Daughter, Sister, Aunt, and Friend

In loving memory of Elizabeth Vargis (lovingly known to most as Isaba, Kochubaby or Kunjaunty), we gather here today to celebrate a remarkable life that touched so many hearts and souls. Isaba was born in Johor, Malaysia, the youngest of four children, to Indian Orthodox Christian parents. Her early years were filled with the love of her homeland's vibrant culture and traditions.

Even as a child, her parents saw in her a spark of curiosity and an eagerness to explore the world around her. Isaba moved to India with her siblings at a young age and diligently pursued her education. She completed her academic journey with an MA in Eastern Philosophy from Women's College in Trivandrum, a testament to her intellect and thirst for wisdom. Little did she know that this foundation in philosophy would be just one part of her multifaceted life.

In 1995, fate brought Isaba into Jacob's life, and their love story blossomed. They married, and she embarked on a new journey, leaving behind familiar shores for the promises of a new land. Isaba’s love for books, an abiding passion, led her to the Fairfax County library system in the United States. There, she served for an incredible 26 years, mentoring, encouraging and supporting her colleagues and juniors while enriching the lives of countless patrons with her compassion and warmth. She was to retire at the end of this year.

Isaba’s spirituality was the cornerstone of her life. She shared a profound bond with her brothers and sisters in the church, where her faith was a guiding light through every joy and challenge. Her colleagues at the library became a cherished second family - indicative of her ability and desire to create strong connections wherever she went. She had a remarkable gift for maintaining close ties with family and friends, always a comforting voice on the other end of the line, eager to inquire about their well-being.

One of the most remarkable qualities that defined Isaba was her ability to adapt gracefully to life's changing circumstances. Whether faced with social challenges or health setbacks, she remained a paragon of strength and poise, taking everything in stride. Her demeanor was a source of inspiration to those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Isaba’s love for travel was well-known. She had big retirement plans, envisioning a life of exploration and adventure. However, as often happens, plans can be altered by forces beyond our control. In the face of this unexpected change in her journey, she demonstrated resilience and grace.

Today, as we bid farewell to Isaba, we remember her incredible life and enduring impact on us. Her legacy of love, faith, and adaptability will continue to inspire us as we cherish the memories of her vibrant spirit. Though she may not have had the opportunity to fulfill all her travel dreams, we believe that in her passing, she has started on a new and everlasting journey where her soul is free to explore boundless horizons. We find solace in Isaba reuniting with her and Jacob's fathers, who loved her dearly. Avid travelers in their own right, they eagerly await her arrival at the Pearly Gates, ready to embark on celestial adventures together.

In this time of sorrow, let us find solace in the knowledge that Isaba’s memory lives on in our hearts, and her spirit continues to guide us. As we say our goodbyes, may we take with us the lessons she imparted - to embrace life's changes with grace and to treasure the bonds of love and faith that connect us all. Isaba, you will remain in our hearts forever, and your legacy will shine as a beacon of hope and inspiration.

But now thus says the Lord, who created you, O Elizabeth, who formed you, O beloved child of mine:

'Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.'

As you, dear Elizabeth, walked through the valleys of suffering and endured moments of neglect, remember the words of Psalm 34:18: 'The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.' Just as God knew your name and held you close, He was near, offering His comfort and salvation during those trying times.

Funeral Arrangements
St. Gregorios Indian Orthodox Church of Greater Washington DC

2337 Fairland Road

Silver Spring, MD 20904

George Washington Cemetery

9500 Riggs Road

Adelphi, MD 20783

Garden of the Cross (11B)

2023-Dec-10 [Sunday] :: 1pm - 2pm
Wake Services
First Part of the Funeral Service
St. Gregorios Indian Orthodox Church of Greater Washington DC
2023-Dec-16 [Saturday] :: 9am - 12pm
Wake Services
Viewing, Second and Third Parts of the Funeral Service
St. Gregorios Indian Orthodox Church of Greater Washington DC
2023-Dec-17 [Sunday]
Burial Service
7:15am :: Morning Prayers
8:00am :: Holy Qurubana
11:30am - 1:30pm :: Viewing and Final Part of the Funeral Service
2:00pm :: Interment at George Washington Cemetery
Shared Memories
2023-12-17 06:38:24 PM Gilley Joseph shared a memory
Filled with sorrow and grief
"Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done" I have met Elizabeth only once and that for just a few hours during her relatively short stay on this planet. And the reason that I could meet her was unfortunately the sad occasion of the funeral of Elizabeth's father-in-law and the father of her husband and my dear childhood friend Sunil - Uncle Varghese! Uncle Varghese & family were our close family friends and neighbors during our days in Sarawak, Malaysia. From all what I have heard spoken about Elizabeth I can fully understand that she was indeed a special kind of person! I earnestly pray that Elizabeth's soul will Rest in Eternal Peace and also for Sunil and the rest of the family that they may go through this very difficult time with courage through the Grace of our Lord and Savior. Amen!
2023-12-17 03:13:41 AM Remade i?Rema devi shared a memory
Remembering Elizabeth
I'm deeply saddened and shocked to hear the demise of our sweet classmate and friends Elizabeth. She was such a cute and loving girl. I remember her always smiling face and the way she reads malayalam...so sweet. May God give her family the strength to overcome this situation. May our dear Eli's soul rest in peace. 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
2023-12-16 08:04:25 AM Sunil and Dilla, Heera Gardens, Trivandrum, Kerala shared a memory
Condolences to Jacob
Dilla and I are deeply saddened to learn of Elizabeth's passing, and we can only imagine the shock and grief that her departure has brought to you and your family. It feels like just yesterday that Aunty returned from the USA, sharing a hopeful conversation with Dilla about Elizabeth's recovery and the prospect of a post-hospital reunion in Trivandrum. The unexpected turn of events has left us all grappling with the fragility of life. Despite our limited time with Elizabeth, her simplicity, warmth, and genuine affection left an indelible mark on our hearts. I recall a poignant moment during our visit, particularly after the passing of uncle, when Elizabeth's concern was not just for her own well-being but for ours—ensuring we were comfortable and had something to drink. This level of hospitality mirrored the grace I experienced firsthand during my stay at your beautiful home in Washington, D.C., a few years ago. Even amidst multiple guests, Elizabeth's attention to everyone's needs was nothing short of remarkable. In this difficult time, words seem inadequate to convey the depth of our sympathy. Please accept our heartfelt condolences to you and your entire family. May Jesus give you the strength to bear the weight of this profound loss, recognizing that time, as the great healer, will eventually bring solace. The departure of a loved one is a reminder of our shared mortality, and while Elizabeth has left us earlier than expected, we fervently pray that God grants you the inner strength to navigate this early departure. May Elizabeth's soul find eternal peace, and may the cherished memories of her warm spirit continue to bring comfort in the days ahead. With prayerful condolences
2023-12-15 10:27:18 PM Leena Mathew shared a memory
Remembrance
In loving memory of Elizabeth who was an amazing friend, classmate, and neighbor to me that left us far too soon but your spirit lives on in all of us. I will cherish every moment we shared together and the memories I have of you. I will treasure them forever. Thank you for being a part of our lives and rest in peace.
2023-12-15 06:48:30 PM Lissy shared a memory
RIP Liz.
Deeply saddened to hear your passing away, Liz. Rest in peace. Memories of our time in middle school keep coming back to me. Your contagious smile and the stories you shared during lunch are etched in my mind.
2023-12-15 04:04:37 PM Malini Hemachandran shared a memory
I remember
I met Elizabeth in 1985, in Trivandrum Women’s college. She became my close friend. We continued the close association and friendship till the very end. I can’t believe that she’s no more. She never failed to meet me whenever she came to Kerala . Elizabeth and Sunil attended my son’s marriage at Trivandrum. I think she nurtured a desire to live in Trivandrum at a later stage in her life. Perhaps, as part of that preparation, she even took membership in Trivandrum Women’s Club. She was very warm, genuine and sincere. I lost an intimate friend which I least expected. The sweet memories remain , forever . Malu
2023-12-15 05:45:11 AM Georgy shared a memory
Tribute
In loving memory of kochu chechy Rest peacefully Keeping Leela ammachy and all loved ones in prayers. Love and prayers Georgy and family
2023-12-14 10:13:43 AM G(George Thomas. (G). shared a memory
Prayers
Bye Kochubaby…will never forget you…prayers.. G,Pettayil,Thumpamon.