Vivian Teresa Ison

Vivian Teresa Ison was born on May 19, 1948, in Washington D.C. to William and Rosa Ison. She was the fourth born of six children. Vivian suffered the loss of her mother and father at an early age and was raised by her Aunt Edna who taught her to be kind, wise, strong, and loving. Vivian dropped out of Anacostia High School during her senior year to take care of her two younger brothers. The ultimate sacrifice and a true act of pure love. After taking on the role of caregiver her life was filled with nothing but endless love and countless adventures. She loved having them around.

Not long after taking on the responsibility of caring for her brothers she began to grow her family with three sons of her own. Taking care of her boys was always her greatest accomplishment and she never hesitated to tell anyone how proud she was of them. She lived a life of servitude often extending her loving nature beyond family and friends to co-workers and strangers alike. Vivian was never too busy to lend a helping hand, a listening ear, or words of encouragement; and she was always willing to feed anyone who was hungry, children and grownups alike.

Vivian worked at the Washington Beef Company as a butcher for over 30 years. She met some of her lifelong friends there and retired in 2008. Retirement was enjoyable but it would not last long. After losing the love of her life, Carl Jackson, in 2011 she decided to return to the workforce in 2013 to become a beacon once again for her community, this time serving as a chef. She loved to cook and received many accolades for her service and contributions.

In 2020 Vivian Ison, was diagnosed with throat cancer. She went through many rounds of chemo and through it all continued to serve and wanted to be of service to others. Cancer claimed her life, but her spirit forever lives on through all of us. She fought the good fight to the very end.

Vivian Teresa Ison, God’s perfect portrait of a Phenomenal Woman, Selfless in all her ways.

Vivian Ison is survived by her three sons: Lawrence, Samuel, and Wallace Ison. Christine Poles (Honorary Daughter), Two daughters-in-law, six grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and a host of others who loved her dearly. There is a hole in our hearts this day and forever more. She is and will always be forever missed.