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Lydia Sanchez, 81, of Sedona, AZ formerly of Chicago Heights, IL passed away peacefully in Nashville, TN on August 15, 2022 surrounded by those who loved her. Faith was the guiding force of Lydia’s life. She was a devout Catholic, and a 3rd Order Franciscan. Mass at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Cornville, AZ was always the highlight of her week. For over 35 years, Lydia was a licensed cosmetologist, owning several of her own full-service beauty Salons. She and Manuel were a staple of their communities owning and running businesses with the highest levels of integrity and compassion including: Oakwood & Elmwood Apartments (Chicago Heights, IL), Park Manor Funeral Home (South Chicago Heights, IL), & Days Inn Sedona (Sedona, AZ). Staff here became family, they gained life-long friends along the way. Travel was a special part of Lydia’s life. She and her husband enjoyed many cruises, road trips, and trips overseas. As parents and grandparents they fostered their love of travel by taking their family on many memorable vacations (Hawaii being their favorite destination). Her grandchildren will remember her most by the special memories they shared on trips throughout the American Southwest. Lydia loved and cared deeply for every person she met. She never forgot a birthday, anniversary, or detail of a story. For every trouble, hope, or loss, a prayer candle was lit. No matter the circumstances, she was always just a phone call away. Your troubles and worries were hers, as were your celebrations and achievements. Lydia’s uniquely beautiful and loving ways will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her. Lydia will be remembered as the loving mother of Rene, Dena, & Nora; adoring grandmother of Stevie VanBaber, Dominic Julian (Leah), Selena Cottingham (Jared), Daniella Julian, Timothy VanBaber, and Lindsey Rodgers. Lydia was a dear friend, aunt, and mother/grandmother-figure to many. Lydia is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 55 years, her one and only love, Manuel. Private services were held, and a funeral mass was celebrated on August 22, 2022 at St. Joseph Church in Dyer, IN, followed by entombment at Memory Lane Funeral Home in Crown Point, IN. Lydia was a gracious benefactor of numerous charities. If you wish to honor Lydia’s Legacy, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

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Lydia Sanchez

December 2, 1940 - August 15, 2022