Isabelle Odette Hilton Papadimitriou

Some people only walk this earth for a short time. Their departure reminds us that angels truly are watching over us. On July 4, Isabelle Odette Hilton Papadimitriou rejoined her heavenly family and gained her wings.

Isabelle passed just one week after battling a mild case of COVID-19. As a young woman, she was an avid flute player and talented baton twirler at her high school in Brownsville, where she was born. Isabelle was a compassionate spirit whose fervour was caring for others. So, nearly 30 years ago, she chose to switch careers and spend her days helping others breathe as a respiratory therapist, all while caring for her two children, Isaac and Fiana.

The mental drive, focus and commitment needed for her job on the front line were admirable. But it was her winning smile, joyful spirit, and strong will that made her a ray of light in everyone’s life. Isabelle, who was often called “Obie” by her friends and family, was a lover of her two dogs, Shadow and Gauner; the Greek Orthodox religion; books; travel; Facebook; her friends and family; and most of all, her 10-month old granddaughter, Lua.

Isabelle is loved and missed by her son Richard Isaac Elizondo; her daughter and son-in-law Fiana Paulette Tulip and Charlie Tulip; her grandbaby Lua; her siblings Terrie Vasquez and her husband Josue Vasquez, Vicky Borrego, Robert Hilton and his wife Louise Ara and Xavier Hilton and his wife Susan Hilton; along with her treasured nieces and nephews, countless friends and the greater Dallas Fort-Worth, Hawaiian, and Brownsville communities. She is preceded in death by her brother John Joe Hernandez, her brother Luis Hernandez, her brother-in-law George Borrego, and her parents.

Isabelle was a giant, powerful in her kindness. Like thousands of others #MarkedByCovid, she should still be alive today. Her undeserving death is due to the carelessness of politicians who undervalue healthcare workers through lack of leadership, refusal to acknowledge the severity of this crisis, and unwillingness to give clear and decisive direction to minimize the risks of coronavirus. Isabelle’s death was preventable; her children are channeling their grief and anger into ensuring fewer families endure this nightmare.

They ask you to honor Isabelle’s life by wearing a mask, remaining socially distant, washing your hands and staying inside as much as you can for yourself, for others, and especially for our healthcare heroes.

On Monday, July 27, she will be buried at 2pm CST at Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Brownsville. Immediate family only will be in attendance. The service can be viewed via a Facebook Live link provided by the family. #MaskOnForMyMom