Lydia Arevalo Sanchez

Lydia Arevalo Sanchez, a beloved daughter, sister, wife, aunt, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, and cherished friend, left an indelible mark on the lives of all who knew her. She was born on March 8, 1920, in San Antonio, Texas, to Juan and Hipolita Molina Arevalo, during the later months of the 1918-1920 influenza pandemic. Lydia lived a remarkable life, spanning over a century, and witnessed the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic before being called home to join her dutiful husband, Jesse, and Our Heavenly Father on May 1, 2023. She passed away in happiness and peace.

Behind every great man is an even greater woman, and Lydia exemplified this saying. Lydia played an integral role in her husband Jesse’s career, supporting him wholeheartedly. From learning how to type and coordinate appointments to hosting her renowned Tex-Mex enchilada dinners for business associates; she was the backbone of their success. Lydia and Jesse enjoyed traveling together to insurance conventions, exploring cities like Washington DC, Las Vegas, New Orleans, Miami, and Denver, and making lasting memories along the way. Lydia and Jesse were renowned for their elegance on the dance floor. They were a radiant couple, known for their graceful movements and ability to captivate everyone with their love for dancing.

She provided unwavering support and encouragement to her husband and her family, which included three sons, ten grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. Raising a family brought Lydia immense joy and happiness in nurturing her loved ones to excel in all their endeavors.

Lydia’s talent as a seamstress was unmatched, and she generously shared her skills, assisting with sewing projects as a member of Saint Paul’s Altar Society. As a dedicated homemaker, Lydia took great pride in ensuring that her family always had immaculately cleaned and pressed clothing. Her attention to detail and dedication to creating a loving and comfortable home environment were unparalleled.

In her later years, she embraced new adventures and eagerly joined trips to Canada and Europe for holidays and special occasions, leaving cherished memories with her loved ones. Friday nights held a special tradition for Lydia and her family, as they gathered to indulge in various international cuisines. She often joked that she felt like she had traveled the world through these culinary experiences. Lydia’s favorite treat was chocolate fondue, and her culinary talents extended to her most requested dishes: cheese enchiladas, sweet tamales, beef soup, and rice pudding.

Known for her effervescent and pleasant personality, Lydia was affectionately called “Sunshine” by the staff and members of the senior citizen centers she frequented. Her infectious positivity brightened the lives of those around her, and her presence was a source of inspiration to many. The family extends special thanks to the staff at McCullough Hall and Guiding Light Hospice for their dedicated care and support during Lydia’s final days.

Lydia’s radiant smile had the power to light up any room she entered, and her warm presence brought joy to all those around her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and cherished memories. Her spirit will forever live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

Lydia is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Jesse Lopez Sanchez, her sisters, Beatrice, Zulema, and Adelina; her brothers, Edmond, Mario, and Alex; and her daughter-in-law, Gloria Hernandez Saucedo. She is survived by her sons Miguel Jr (Gloria) and Carlos Saucedo, and Steven (Terri) Sanchez; as well as the true joys of her life, her grandchildren Christina, Andres, Rebecca, Bryan, Pamela, Barbara, Carlos, Sylvia, Sophia, and Isabella; and her great-grandchild Marla.

As we bid farewell to Lydia Arevalo Sanchez, we honor her remarkable life, grateful for the joy she shared and the love she bestowed upon us. May her soul rest in eternal peace.

She will be remembered with love and fond memories during a Rosary service on Wednesday, May 17, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. at Porter Loring Mortuary, 1101 McCullough Ave. On Thursday, May 18, 2023, family, and friends may arrive at Porter Loring 8:45 – 9:00 A.M. and process to St. Paul’s Catholic Church, 350 Sutton Drive, 78228 for Mass at 10:30 A.M. Following Mass, committal will be at Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery.