She was born in Rio Piedras, PR, and moved to Philadelphia, PA, as a teenager. In 1981, she relocated to Winter Haven with her husband and daughter. Lydia worked as a paraeducator until her retirement and was an active member of the American Legion and the Latin American Society.
She is survived by her daughter, Jeannette Santiago, as well as seven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Angelo Gonzalez; two sons, Robert and Angelo Jr.; and is also survived by her brother and sister.
A Celebration of Life for Carmen will be held on Monday, August 18, 2025 from 5:00 - 8:00 PM at Ott-Laughlin Funeral Home, 645 W Central Ave, Winter Haven, Florida 33880.
