Rafaela Virella Iglesias, 71, of Shawnee, passed away Saturday, January 11 at her home. Rafaela was born April 21, 1942 in Patillas, Puerto Rico; her parents were the late Anselmo Vazquez and Luz Maria Iglesias.

She is also preceded in death by a son, Ronnie Lopez-Virella. Rafaela attended Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church.

Survivors include two sons, Jose Lopez-Virella and wife Ann; Rafael Lopez-Virella and wife Nilsa; a sister Myrna Vasquez; a brother, Ronnie Virella-Iglesias and wife Nilda; and eight grandchildren.

Memorial Contributions

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Sacred Heart of Jesus Building Fund, 5501 Monticello Road, Shawnee, Kansas 66226; or to Catholic Community Hospice, 9740 W. 87th Street, Overland Park, Kansas 66212

Visitation and Services

Visitation will be 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, January 16 at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church, 5501 Monticello Road, Shawnee, Kansas 66226; the rosary will be prayed at 6 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m. Friday at the church.