On December 23, 2023, Lidia Méndez, a loving wife, mother, and sister to many, went home to be with our Lord. She was the kindest soul anyone could ever meet. Her caring spirit touched the lives of so many. Caring for and helping others gave her great purpose, and she always did so with a happy heart, never asking nor expecting anything in return.

Lidia was born on April 2nd, 1961, in Gary, Indiana, to Luís and Lorenza Vélez. She was one of 15 children. Some of her greatest passions in life came from cooking and baking; she loved to see how people's faces would light up when tasting her food. Incredibly gifted in many ways, Lidia saw the beauty in things others would pass by unnoticed.

Her patience was immeasurable. She spent time teaching latchkey and eventually went on to work helping autistic children learn. Over the years, life threw many hardships her way, but she never let anything break her. Lidia was a rock to her family and friends, a blessing to everyone she crossed paths with. Her presence is sorely missed. Heaven's gain is truly our loss.

Lidia is survived by her cherished and devoted husband, José Méndez Sr., and her two beloved children, Jennifer and José II.