Lilly Lucia Valenzuela, an 18 years resident of Merced California, formerly of San Jose California of 52 years, and Los Angeles California for 18 years, passed away on November 26, 2018 at Emanuel Hospital in Turlock California at the age of 87 years. Lilly was born on September 2, 1931 in Calexico, California to her parents of Edwin Carl Haines and Sarah Sanchez Haines. Lilly worked for the Santa Clara County before her retirement. Lilly loved her children, she was very devoted to her Family. Lilly was one of the most generous individuals anyone could ever meet. She found joy in giving to others and did so selflessly. All of her family, friends and strangers alike could feel her love through her generosity. Lilly was a very spiritual person and very active at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Merced California. You could find her many Sundays singing in the church choir. But most of all her devotion to God and our blessed Mother.
Lilly is survived by her loving husband Benjamin H. Valenzuela, Her sons Ben, Edwin, Richard, Paul, Patrick, and John; her daughters; Ann Cardenas, Victoria Duran and Monica Valenzuela. Lilly had 7 siblings, Edward, Frederick, Delano, Ernest, Mary, Anita, and Mary Lou. She also leaves behind to cherish her memory 25 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren and many more family members and friends that loved her dearly and will miss her daily.
Lilly’s Visitation will be held on December 6, 2018 at 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. with the Rosary to be recited at 6:00 p.m. at Stratford Funeral Home, 1490 B Street, Merced 95340. Funeral Mass will be on December 7, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church 13th Street Merced, California with Interment to follow at the Calvary Cemetery located on E Childs. Ave. Merced, California. A special note from Lilly’s family, your kindness and sympathy are more deeply appreciated than any words of thanks can ever express.
