Mercedes Filippi Robinson

Mercedes Filippi Robinson, 87, of Chester, passed away on Tuesday, January 21, 2014. Born in St. John's, Newfoundland, she was the daughter of the late Albert and Ella Andrews. She was also preceded in death by husbands, George Filippi and William Robinson. Mercedes was an accomplished and passionate musician with a 50 year career first as a vocal performer and later as musical director for St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Petersburg and for 25 years at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Colonial Heights. Her vibrant personality and indomitable spirit were uniquely hers and with her to the end. Mrs. Robinson is survived by her children, David Filippi (Emily) of White Stone, VA, Robert Filippi of Blacksburg, VA, Linda Filippi (John Heckel) of Chesapeake, VA, Patrice Anderson (Barry) of Powhatan, VA, and Mark Filippi (Madonna) of Troy, VA; beloved grandchildren, Lisa Filippi (Ben Hulan), Michael Filippi, Geoffrey Filippi, Joshua Filippi, Erich Heckel (Emily), Alison Heckel (Osiris Rankin), and Jennifer Allen (Kenneth) ; three great-grandchildren, Jessica Allen, Sam and Eli Hulan; sister, Julia Alam of New Jersey; niece, Julie Blaha of Hopewell, VA; long time friends, Teresa Dumouchelle and Barbara Dougherty; and numerous nieces and nephews across the United States and Canada. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 pm on Friday, January 24, 2014 at the Chester Chapel of J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 25, 2014 at St. Ann's Roman Catholic Church, 17111 Jefferson Davis Hwy, South Chesterfield, VA 23834, with Fr. Lou Ruoff as Celebrant. Interment will follow at Southlawn Memorial Park, Prince George, VA. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or to your local food bank. Condolences may be registered at www.jtmorriss.com .