Mary Ellen Varvel

Mary Ellen Varvel, a devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and faithful servant of God, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 30, 2024 at 96 years of age.

She was born on July 14, 1927, in St. Louis County, MO. to Lasco and Ella Dugan. From an early age, her unwavering faith in Christ shaped her character and guided her actions. Her life was a testament to love, compassion, and selflessness.

Mary Ellen met the love of her life, Doyle E Varvel, during her high school years and was married at the age of 19. Their marriage was a beautiful union built on shared values, laughter, and a mutual respect and dedication to Jesus Christ. Together, they raised three children: Sandra, Patsy, and Doyle Varvel Jr. Her home was a haven of warmth, where family gatherings were filled with love, laughter, and delicious homemade meals. Her faith was the cornerstone of her existence. She was an active member in several churches during her life time, and her unwavering commitment to God’s Word inspired those around her to seek a deeper relationship with Christ.

Her heart overflowed with compassion for others. She volunteered her time at several churches, planted and nurtured trees down Main Street in Groveland, FL and devoted a large majority of her life at The Florida Boy’s Ranch, where she and her husband took care of neglected and underprivileged children. Her acts of kindness touched countless lives, and her legacy of love will continue to resonate in the hearts of those she touched.

Mary Ellen had a green thumb and spent hours tending to her garden. Her roses bloomed vibrantly, reflecting the beauty she saw in God’s creation. She loved music, and listening to her husband of over 70 years, sing songs from his Gospel music albums that he made over their years together.

She faced her illness with grace and courage. Even in her final days, she remained steadfast in her faith, finding solace in the promises of eternal life.

Mary Ellen is survived by a daughter, Patsy Skyles (Robert); a son, Doyle Varvel, Jr. (Erin); six grandchildren, Stephen, Tammy, Christy, Mike, Rebecca and Ashlyn as well as five great-grandchildren, Kaitlin, Brandyn, Breelynn, Lily and Parker. She was preceded in death by her husband, Doyle E. Varvel, Sr. as well as a daughter, Sandra Varvel Patterson.

Mary Ellen’s life was a living testimony to God’s love, and her legacy will forever inspire us to live with compassion, faith, and gratitude. We celebrate her reunion with the Lord and find comfort in knowing that she is now at peace with the many family members that went before her. “Well done, good and faithful servant” – Matthew 25:21

A private family celebration will be held at a later date. Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian is assisting the family.