Helen Marie Varljen

Helen Varljen passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by the love of her family. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Frank Varljen; her son-in-law, Jerry Lawson; and her siblings, Joe, John, Mike, Mary, Anne, and Rose. Helen is survived by her children, Cindy, Frankie (Dee), and Debbie (Paul); her precious grandchildren - Justin (Katie), Cory, Logan, Jeff (Dabney), Samantha (Rory), Rachael, Savannah (Will), Brooke & Macesin; and her sweet great-grandchildren - Betsie Ann, Ella, and Peter, who were the twinkles in her eyes. She is also survived by her sister Marge, along with a host of dear family members and friends.

Helen, affectionately known as “Happy” by her great-grandchildren, treasured every moment spent with family and friends. Whether it was visiting loved ones in her hometowns of Twin Rocks and Nanty Glo Pennsylvania, cooking or soaking up the sun with a round of shoeskis during the annual beach trip to OBX, hosting special gatherings like Christmas Eve midnight breakfasts or Sunday family dinners, Helen always made these moments unforgettable, and no one was ever denied a meal whether you wanted it or not. She especially enjoyed bringing people together with her spotless home and delicious treats, like pierogis, Christmas cookies, Justin potatoes and pigs (stuffed cabbage).

For a time, Helen also worked outside the home at Miller & Rhodes, where she was a friendly face in the bakery and jewelry departments. But beyond her work, her true legacy lives in how she united people—whether through hospitality, laughter over Scrabble or playing cards (especially when she won the pot), or simply reflecting Christ’s love for others with Frank. Together, they opened their home to all and set an example of kindness and service that inspired everyone they knew.

A devoted member of St. Edward The Confessor Catholic Church for almost 60 years, Helen actively participated in the life of the church. She enjoyed dinner dances (loved to dance the polka), played in a bowling league, and served with the Ladies Auxiliary in countless ways, including washing linens, saying the rosary, and attending Mass. Her selfless nature, her kindness to everyone, and her embodiment of true motherly love left an indelible mark on her children and everyone fortunate enough to know her. She will be remembered for her deep love of family and the joy she found in nurturing those around her.

A funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at St. Edward The Confessor Catholic Church, 2700 Dolfield Dr., North Chesterfield, Virginia 23235. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to St. Edward’s to continue Christ’s work in the community and beyond.