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Isabel Leca Obituary
Isabel was the beloved wife of the late Jose Leca and with him owned and operated The Cavern from 1962-1982. She was a devoted mother to her daughter Linda Davis and her late son Victor. Her family circle extended to include her cherished daughter-in-law Kathie Leca and her late son-in-law Major General Richard W. Davis. Isabel also took great pride in her grandchildren and great grandchildren, whose lives she touched deeply with her warmth and generosity.
She is also remembered by her sister Carol Inacio; her sister-in-law Jean Jardim; her many nieces and nephews who have stayed in touch throughout the years and from across the nation; and her close community of neighbors, tenants, and caregivers. Isabel was predeceased by her sister Clara and brother Frank, with whom she shared many formative years.
A woman of deep Catholic faith, Isabel found strength and solace in her beliefs throughout her life. Her faith guided her actions and provided comfort during times of loss and joy alike.
Known for her loving and generous nature, Isabel had an extraordinary memory that remained sharp until the very end. Despite this gift, she was known for constantly taking notes and labeling everything- a testament to both her meticulous nature and enduring curiosity about the world around her.
In addition to time spent with friends and loved ones, Isabel enjoyed going to the casino-a pastime that brought her joy and laughter over the years.
Whether sharing stories or simply enjoying each other's company, she treasured every moment spent with those close to her.
Isabel's legacy lives on through the memories held by those who knew and loved her. May her memory bring comfort to all whose lives she touched.
Funeral Service will be held on July 12, 2025 at 10:30am at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church and Academy in San Diego. An hour-long Mass will be followed by a reception in the church hall.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Dan & Tina Mendes
July 8, 2025
Isabel, was a very good friend of Elsie P. Mendes ,That passed way a year ago just shy of 104. Isabel would call my Mom everyday and if she did not get an answer she would call my wife Tina , to check on her. They both loved playing the slot machines ,Isabel would pick her up and off they went to Valley View Casino to play the slot Machines and have their lunch.
RIP:
Love: Danny, Tina & Mendes Family
Corie Sarti
July 7, 2025
Kelby Sarti
July 7, 2025
I moved in with Isabel in 2010, while I was finishing my senior year at Point Loma Nazarene University. What was meant to be a short stay turned into a meaningful, lifelong friendship. I remained in her home as I pursued graduate school and began working full-time, and during that time, Isabel became much more than a landlord. She became family.
She took a genuine interest in my life, always checking in, asking about my next steps, and offering thoughtful advice. Sunday breakfasts at McDonald´s became our tradition, where she´d share stories about her youth, her husband, her children, her bar in Ocean Beach, and her beloved Madeira Island. She was quick to laugh, always ready with a story, and never short on encouragement.
We shared countless moments that still make me smile - picking fruit in her backyard, painting her house yellow simply because it made her happy, and spending long hours at the kitchen table talking about life. Isabel was there through heartbreak and healing, through challenges and growth. Her presence was steady, kind, and full of heart.
Eventually, I moved out after getting married, but our friendship never faded. We stayed in touch until her passing, and she continued to be a source of love and wisdom in my life.
Isabel made me feel like I belonged - like I had a place and a person I could always count on. She brought warmth and light into my life in ways I´ll never forget.
I'll miss Isabel deeply, but I know I'll see her again in heaven.
Kelby Sarti,
Corie Sarti
July 7, 2025
Isabel was so special to our family. She was such a thoughtful person and we always felt so loved by her. There are so many sweet memories I will hold onto forever, and she will be missed dearly. Thank you Isabel for your friendship, love and laughter. Your smile and hugs will be missed. I will always think of you as I drive by Camp May Ave and cherish the time we had together. We know you are resting with God and having a grand time in the kingdom of heaven!
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Andrew Donoghue
June 14, 2025
In Loving Memory of Isabel
Isabel was one of the most amazing individuals I had the pleasure of knowing. Her kindness, strength, and radiant spirit touched the lives of all who were fortunate enough to cross her path. She brought light into every room, warmth to every heart, and wisdom to every conversation.
Though she may no longer walk beside us, her legacy of love, courage, and grace will live on in the memories we hold dear. Isabel´s life was a beautiful gift-one that will continue to inspire and guide us.
Rest in peace, dear Isabel. You will forever be cherished, deeply missed, and never forgotten.
Tracy Engel
June 12, 2025
Isabel always remembered me at the family parties and sometimes hammed it up a bit for my camera. Wanted to share some photos and memories of a loving woman who will be missed.
Kristi Alves
June 2, 2025
My condolences to all. She will be missed. Love you Aunt Isabel
Tracee
June 1, 2025
Isabel was my sister Hannia´s landlord and was Genuinely the nicest, sweetest, most generous soul. God appears to be calling home the best of the best this year. Much love.
Linda Wayda
June 1, 2025
I met Isabel's daughter Linda in high school many, many years ago and we became lifelong friends. I often had sleep overs with Linda during our school years and Isabel became like a mother to me. She was always interested in what I was doing with my life and "where I was going". When I would go over to Linda's house Isabel would hug me and tell me I was too thin and that she wanted to feed me. It seemed that everytime I stayed for dinner they would have porkchops and it became a joke, "if Linda comes over we are going to have porkchops." When I would visit her over the years she always remembered what I had told her at the previous visit about my life and wanted to know about my life at this new point. I don't think she ever forgot anything I told her. Isabel was a unique person and was very personable. She loved talking to people and I always enjoyed her company. Rest in peace, Isabel.
Peyton Leimbach
June 1, 2025
Dear, Isabel's Leca family
Isabel was a great person. She was really sweet and loved the flowers you all send her. She will be missed and will forever be in our hearts.
Love, Peyton
Jody James
June 1, 2025
My favorite memory of Miss Isobel is from a visit to San Pedro to enjoy time with her daughter and my friend, Linda. She called her "My Linda". We walked together in a local park and she identified a tall, blue spiked blooming plant called "Pride of Madeira".
Barbara Sobotka
June 1, 2025
Condolences to the whole family. She was a friend and casino partner, will miss her.
Patricia Leca
June 1, 2025
My dear sweet Aunt Isabel I will miss you deeply. I always enjoyed hearing from you either by phone text or letter My life will never be the same without you here but I know that one day we will be together again God bless you . Patricia Leca
Judith Scott
May 31, 2025
Dear Linda and family.
Who knew that living across the street from your mother would lead to such a wonderful and loving friendship. She became my
"West Coast Mom" way back in 1987. So hard to believe that 38 years have passed since I first met Isable and Joe.
I treasure all the memories she gave me. Waaaay to many to list. I think that one of my favorite memories shows exactly how amazing and sharp Isable was.
While filming a commercial for Home Depot outside her house, she used her camera to take some photos of me. She then presented the photos to me. When I asked her how she printed the pictures, she very confidently said "with my computer". She had taken computer classes at the local night school. She never ceased to amaze me with her brilliance and her generosity.
She continued to work on her computer skills. Because of her love of social media, I made it a point to look "photo ready" when just stopping by to say hello. She was always armed with the camera on her phone and instantly posting them on Facebook etc. I haven't even learned how to do that yet!
I'm sure that all of her new acquaintances in Heaven will be so happy to meet her. Our loss is their gain!
I am so grateful for her friendship. She made my life so much better and brighter. Linda, an added bonus to knowing Isabel, is that I got to know you. Thank you for your friendship as well.
God bless Isabel and her entire family. Isabel will be sorely missed.
Love, Judi
Jenny
May 31, 2025
Carol Inacio
May 31, 2025
My sister, Isabel, like the beautiful roses that she loved cast forth from her a sweet aroma of God´s love to all she encountered in her life. (2 Cor. 2:15) you are loved, Isabel! Give Jesus a hug for me. OXOX
joe alves
May 31, 2025
An honestly caring person.
April Sobotka
May 31, 2025
So sorry to hear this. Though I only met her a few times at the casino, she would frequently send me little notes via Facebook that would make my day. She was such a special lady. I will miss her.
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