In Loving Memory of Charlene “Ifea” Lolita Vanterpool – October 12, 1949 to August 2, 2026
Charlene “Ifea” Lolita Vanterpool passed away peacefully on August 2, 2026, at Calvary Hospital in the Bronx, New York City, following her battle with cancer. She leaves behind a legacy of creativity, curiosity, laughter, and love for the many people whose lives she touched.
Ifea grew up in a loving home in Queens, New York, with her father, Ernesto T. Vanterpool, deceased, her mother, Esther C. Vanterpool, deceased, and her two siblings, Ernestine E. Vanterpool, deceased, and Ernesto C. Vanterpool. She was a fun-loving, good-humored person who enjoyed life and had a wonderful capacity for laughter. She loved to sing and dance, and music was an important part of her life. She especially enjoyed listening to oldies and R&B and had a beautiful singing voice. She also possessed an amazing recall for song lyrics—often remembering words and details that others had long forgotten.
Ifea was a lifelong learner and an avid reader. She was particularly fascinated by African history and culture and had an extraordinary memory for facts and details across many different subjects. Her curiosity led her to travel to Africa on several occasions, experiences that deepened her appreciation for its history, people, and cultures.
Her creativity found a natural home in the world of fashion and design. Ifea attended the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York City. She worked for many years in New York City’s Garment District as a designer and seamstress. Her talents extended beyond clothing; she also designed and made earrings, necklaces, and other accessories. Creating beautiful things was not simply a profession for Ifea—it was one of the ways she expressed herself and showed her love for others.
Ifea also had a generous spirit and enjoyed sharing her creativity and skills with people of all ages. She taught arts and crafts to senior citizens at a community center and later brought those same talents to children through after-school and summer programs in the Bronx.
Ifea grew up in a loving home in Queens, New York, with her father, Ernesto T. Vanterpool, deceased, her mother, Esther C. Vanterpool, deceased, and her two siblings, Ernestine E. Vanterpool, deceased, and Ernesto C. Vanterpool. She was a fun-loving, good-humored person who enjoyed life and had a wonderful capacity for laughter. She loved to sing and dance, and music was an important part of her life. She especially enjoyed listening to oldies and R&B and had a beautiful singing voice. She also possessed an amazing recall for song lyrics—often remembering words and details that others had long forgotten.
Ifea was a lifelong learner and an avid reader. She was particularly fascinated by African history and culture and had an extraordinary memory for facts and details across many different subjects. Her curiosity led her to travel to Africa on several occasions, experiences that deepened her appreciation for its history, people, and cultures.
Her creativity found a natural home in the world of fashion and design. Ifea attended the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York City. She worked for many years in New York City’s Garment District as a designer and seamstress. Her talents extended beyond clothing; she also designed and made earrings, necklaces, and other accessories. Creating beautiful things was not simply a profession for Ifea—it was one of the ways she expressed herself and showed her love for others.
Ifea also had a generous spirit and enjoyed sharing her creativity and skills with people of all ages. She taught arts and crafts to senior citizens at a community center and later brought those same talents to children through after-school and summer programs in the Bronx.
May her memory forever be a blessing and may she rest in eternal peace
Leslie Farrington says
My daughter, Hannah, and I were blessed to have Ifea as our dear cousin whose presence always brought peace and joy to family gatherings. She will be missed but remain living in our hearts.
Lisa Farrington says
Be well, Ernie. My heart and prayers go out to you.
Lisa
Michelle Williams says
Ifea was a beautiful fun loving person. I was privileged to be around her during her last months and days. She was often at our family gatherings and was considered family. Ifea will be terribly missed. My sincerest condolences go out to her family and friends. Love Michelle Williams
Aloma Abbott Blake says
Charlene Ife’ Vanterpool was such a wonderful person to be around . There was so much positivity surrounding her. Her creativity was unmatched and appreciated by so many.
I was so proud to tell my friends and other family members about all of capabilities, weather it was braiding hair, creating fashion pieces “free hand” that is without the use of comercial patterns, upholstery, or her portraits. However, her most remarkable attributes were assisting others whenever she could, her incredible smile and the love that she shared with family and friends.
As cousins we enjoyed many memorable moments as children during her visits to St. Thomas from New York and later as adults when she relocated here for a while. There was also those warm encounters when I visited New York during summer vacations and our occasional phone conversations after I returned home.
I pray that her family and friends find solace in knowing that she lived her life as she wanted to and it was a good life.
My condolences are extended to her loving brother Ernesto as well as other members of the family and friends who knew her, loved her and mourn her passing.
Rest in eternal peace Ife’
Your cousin Aloma Abbott Blake and family.
Juliette says
Aunt Charlene,
Although it has been so many years since I’ve seen you, I will always carry the memories I have of you in my heart. I remember how kind and loving you were to me, and I especially remember you braiding my hair when I was younger. Those simple moments may have been so long ago, but they left a lasting impression on me.
It’s amazing how certain childhood memories stay with us throughout our lives. When I think of you, I will remember your kindness, your warmth, and the care you showed me. I’m grateful that I had those moments with you and that you were a part of my childhood.
You will be missed, remembered, and cherished. May you rest peacefully in God’s loving arms. You will always have a special place in my heart.
With love,
Juliette