Deborah Cheney Varos

Deborah Varos, beloved wife, mother, sister, daughter, friend, and advocate, passed away on May 29, 2025, at the age of 59. Born on November 5, 1965, Deborah lived a radiant life full of purpose, compassion, and unforgettable presence.

Deborah was raised by Naeko and George Cheney and spent her early years in California, Newfoundland, and Hawaii, places and experiences that sparked her love of the world and helped shape her fearless, open-hearted nature. She attended Mater Dei High School in Santa Ana, received her undergraduate degree from California State University, Long Beach, and earned her doctorate in psychology (PsyD) from the California School of Professional Psychology in 1998.

Deborah built a remarkable career as a clinical psychologist, dedicating her life to supporting adults with severe intellectual disabilities. She was considered among the best in her field, not only because of her brilliance and professional skill but because of the relentless compassion and advocacy she brought to every client. She believed in her patients, fought for their well-being, and saw humanity where others often failed to look. She brought that same heart into every corner of her life.

Deborah was married to the love of her life, Drew, for 31 happy, laughter-filled years. Together they built a strong, joyful partnership, rooted in mutual support, humor, and deep love. Their marriage was grounded and spirited - "Just another day in paradise," as they often said.

Deborah's pride and joy was their son, Jimmy. For Jimmy, simply being Deb's son is his greatest badge of honor. She raised him with fierce love, warmth, and wisdom, shaping him with her humor, strength, and boundless heart.

Deborah lived boldly. She worked incredibly hard, and she played even harder. She was the life of the party, loudest laugh in the room, best shoulder to cry on, and most steadfast source of safety and comfort.

She loved frogs and collected over a hundred frog trinkets and figurines throughout her home. She loved red wine, dressing up (herself, the dogs, and anyone who'd join them) for parties, matching outfits with her Aunt Felicia and shopping with her sisters Cathe and Grace, and she recently rekindled her love for fishing with Drew, a connection from the early days of their relationship.

She loved unconditionally, gave endlessly, and believed in the good in people, even when they didn't believe in themselves. She fought tirelessly for her patients, friends, and family. Her spirit was generous, mischievous, undoubtedly powerful, and always kind.

Though raised as an only child, Deborah later discovered she had been adopted and was joyfully reunited with her biological mother and siblings. That reunion brought a sense of fullness and joy into her life that she cherished.

She is survived by her husband, Andrew "Drew" Varos, and her son, James "Jimmy" Varos; her biological mother, Fusae; and her siblings Raymond, Cathe, Grace, James, and Michael.

A celebration of her life was held on June 10, 2025, in San Clemente, CA, with loved ones gathered to honor her memory, laugh through their tears, and celebrate a life beautifully lived.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Foundation for Developmental Disabilities (FDD):

https://foundationfordd.causevox.com

Deborah Varos was a force of light. To carry her legacy forward, we ask you to live as she did:

Be quietly generous.

See the good in people.

Try new things.

Expand your world.

Persevere, even when you're scared.

Do the right thing, even if it costs you.

Love with your whole heart.

Deborah's memory will be eternal, not just in stories but in the way we live, give, and love.