Frederick Hugh Varn

Frederick Hugh Varn, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully in his sleep on November 4, 2025, at the age of 93. Born on March 25, 1932, in Durant, Florida, Fred was the cherished son of Annie Lenora Colson Varn and Bryan Varn. He was predeceased by his parents, his loving wife of 69 years, Dr. Nell Celita Adele Blevins, and his siblings, Pauline, the Varn infant, Evelyn, Bryan Jr., Aaron, Charlotte, and Charles. Fred's life was a tapestry woven with threads of devotion, service, and love. He married his "child bride," Celita, on May 16, 1953, at St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Plant City, Florida. Together, they built an enduring partnership that spanned nearly seven decades, raising four devoted daughters—Dorothy (Mike), Pauline (Doug), Margaret, and Rebecca (James)—in their nurturing Arlington, Virginia home. Fred's journey began in the sunlit groves of Florida, where he helped his family with the citrus and strawberry businesses. He graduated from Brandon High School in 1951 and honorably served in the United States Coast Guard from 1951 to 1954, tending to buoy markers off the coast of Florida and later stationed in Puerto Rico. It was there, amidst the balmy Caribbean breezes, that Fred and Celita created some of their fondest memories as newlyweds. After his service, Fred briefly attended the University of Florida at Gainesville before completing his BA in Business Administration at George Mason University in 1974. His professional life was as diverse as it was fulfilling. Initially selling shoes at Nordstrom's, Fred found a lifelong friend in Bob McKinney. He transitioned to a career in defense contracting and quality control, and even owned a QA/QC company, Delta 88. Fred's second career as a substitute teacher in Arlington County Public Schools, particularly his time teaching art at Washington & Lee High School, deepened his passion for the arts. A devout Christian and active member of St. George’s Episcopal Church for over 60 years, Fred served on the vestry as junior and senior warden and contributed generously to the church, including creating floral arrangements with Celita from their own garden. His home was a testament to his talent and love for renovation and gardening, with roses for each daughter and vibrant azaleas, boxwoods, and camellias gracing their yard. Fred and Celita's retirement years were filled with adventure. They traveled extensively in their beloved RV, affectionately known as their "condo on wheels," exploring the Eastern Shore of Maryland, wintering in Texas, and visiting friends and family across the country. Their love for the beach took them to the Atlantic, Pacific, and Gulf of Mexico, where they found joy in shell collecting, bird watching, and soaking in the sea breezes. Fred was known for his generosity, iron will, and his love of sharing stories and laughter with friends and family. He was a true "foodie" and a D.C. area tour guide, always ready to share his home and hospitality. Though shy in front of a camera, his spirit shone brightly through his deeds and his love for those around him. Fred is survived by his cherished children, grandchildren—Michael, Thomas (Amanda), Gregory (Candice), Madeleine (Gage), Charles—and great-grandchildren—Meredith, Alexis, Piper, Brooks, Avery, Mason, and Wilder Joe. His legacy of love and kindness will be remembered by all who had the privilege to know him. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Fisher House Foundation for Veterans in Rockville, MD, at https://fisherhouse.org. A private funeral service will be held, with parishioners of St. Peter's Episcopal Church invited to attend on Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM. As we bid farewell to Fred, we celebrate a life well-lived, filled with love, laughter, and lasting memories. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit and legacy will continue to inspire us all.