Isaias Mercedes Chalas, son of Manuel De Jesus Mercedes and Concepcion Mercedes, born October 25, 1972, has passed away of natural causes on October 7, 2023 in Hyattsville at the young age of 50. He leaves behind two beautiful children, Manuel Isaias (Manny) and Liamel Isabella.
Born in Sabana de la Mar, Dominican Republic, to a tailor and a homemaker, Isaias was the second son of Manuel and Concepcion, only preceded by Samuel but later to be joined by Israel, Mayra and Ivan, while Concepcion’s firstborn son, Juan Ramon, would lead the pack.
A hardworking young man with a strong preference for keeping his hands busy, while other children of his age were out playing, Isaias opted to join his father at work or collect and clean bottles. His interest was not in the monetary value, but the value of the adventure and investment of his time.
A natural born Wildcat, Isaias attended Northwestern High School where his already strong spirit connected him with lifelong friends with similar interests. His commitment to friendships was unmatched and would be a key ingredient of his personality. This same commitment and selflessness takes the shape of an “aguacate”, whereby Isaias would ensure to have one delicacy for him and some to share with the family.
After high school, Isaias followed his passion for life by pursuing a trade in automotive studies that would prove useful through his many professional adventures. Refusing to settle for a dull life, Isaias worked in various industries that included installing and troubleshooting cable and satellite TV, auto repair, truck driving and more recently Uber driving, including a short stint as a personal chauffeur for a prestigious, undiscovered young musical talent.
In the music department, Isaias could easily be found on the dance floor, especially for his favorite songs by Ruby Perez, Oro Solido, Yoskar Sarante and many others. Anyone that knew Isaias understood that once “EL BEEPER!” was heard on the speakers, his feet were hitting the dance floor.
“Love” was always a big part of his relationship with his children, and they are the pride and joy, and ultimate legacy that Isaias leaves behind. This is evident in the way his youngest expresses the love and remembrance toward her dad while looking at and kissing pictures of him while listening to and singing “I love daddy” with tears in her eyes. Manny, meanwhile, is a living representation of his father and grandfather, sharing more than first names but also a strong personality and traces of love for family. Isaias ensured to build a strong and enduring connection with his surviving family and his lovely children to keep his legacy through eternal love.
A celebration of Isaias’ life will take place on October 21, 2023. Details to follow.