Alicia Balagtas Lavarias

Alicia B. Lavarias, 85, of Jacksonville, Florida, passed away peacefully on August 21, 2017, at Baptist Medical Center Beaches Hospital. Born December 28, 1931 in Capas, Tarlac, Philippines, she is reunited with her late husband of 47 years, Romeo C. Lavarias of Patling, Philippines.

While Alicia worked as a nurse, homemaker and mother living in Jacksonville, FL since 1974, her true passion was as a seamstress. She never stopped sewing until her untimely death and enjoyed creating unique dresses that made each customer feel special. Whether she created a dress for a wedding, prom, or special event, she also provided helpful advice that made her customers feel more like a friend. Aside from her sewing she loved growing her roses and fruit trees because it reminded her of the time it took to raise her children and grandchildren.

Alicia was a “tough Filipino mom”. She raised three kids in a new country far from her native Philippines, while her husband was serving in the U.S. Navy. She made sure that her kids played musical instruments even if they didn’t want to, and provided the support to make sure that their dreams of success were what she decided. Her reward for this toughness were her four grandchildren that she worshipped, and till the end made them feel that each one was her favorite.

Survivors include her sons, Romeo B. Lavarias of Plantation, FL, and Ruben D. Lavarias of Jacksonville Beach, FL and daughter, Brenda L. Lavarias of Miami, FL; daughter-in-law, Angie Lavarias of Jacksonville Beach, FL; son-in-law Orlando Hidalgo of Miami, FL and granddaughters, Alyssa N. Hidalgo of Orlando, FL; Lauren A. Lavarias of Belmont Abbey, NC; Cassidy L. Hidalgo of Tallahassee, FL; and grandson Orlando R. Hidalgo of Waltham, MA; nephew Frank Balagtas and his wife Daisy Balagtas; niece Susan Balagtas and her husband Conrado Francisco; and great-nephew Joseph Balagtas and his wife Lahn; and great-nephew Conrado Franscisco, Jr.

The wake will be held on Sunday, August 27 from 3:00-6:00 PM at Hardage-Giddens Funeral Homes located at 850 St. Johns Bluff Road, Jacksonville, FL.

Mass and funeral will be held at Blessed Trinity Catholic Church located at 10472 Beach Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL on Monday, August 28 at 10:00 AM. A reception will be held at Blessed Trinity Social Hall following her burial.

Memorial donations may be made to the Legacy Project to Blessed Trinity Catholic Church.

Friends and relatives may visit online www.hardage-giddenschapelhills.com.com to sign the memory book and extend condolences to the family.