Lydia G. Cortez

My mother Lydia was a woman of unwavering integrity, a pillar of our family, and a beacon of kindness to all who knew her. She always had a ready smile, a joke to share, and a helping hand for anyone who needed help.

Mom graduated from a school of nursing from the Philippines as a magna cum loude. She originally worked in New York then moved to California. She worked at Good Samaritan Hospital with my dad, then found her calling as a recover room nurse at Harbor General Hospital for 26 years. She retired at the age of 62, she wanted to see the world. She always wanted to travel. She went to San Francisco, Hawaii, Philippines, and Las Vegas. However, she did have arthritis, and pain which prevented her from traveling too far as she couldn't tolerate a long trip. Even though she couldn't travel, she enjoyed spending time with family. Going out to eat in birthdays, lunches at her favorite restaurants after her Dr:s appointments, and of course shopping for sales. That was enough for her.

She was the oldest sister of 3. She was the last to pass as her siblings passed before her. She was and will always be a great mother to her 5 children, a wife to her husband of 61 years, a grand mother to 5, great grand mother to 7, soon to be 8, an auntie, and a dear friend.

She was and will always be a great mother to her 5 children, a wife to her husband of 61 years, a grand mother, auntie, and friend.

She was best remembered for her love of shopping. She would cut coupons and look for the best sales. She did not shop for herself, but for her family. She prepared Christmas presents in March. She took meticulous time selecting just the right gift for everyone.

Mom loved Christmas and Thanksgiving. She would use the Betyy Crocker cook cook for recipes. Her specialities were Orange Chicken, (Caldereta), Adobo, Chicken and Broccoli, Pancit Canton, and Pistachio cake. I remember Mom cooking two batches of food, one for us, and the other to share with her co-workers for potlucks at Harbor General.

She enjoyed her 5 grand children. I remember how proud she was when she heard about their school awards, and activities. She placed their paintings, drawings and awards in her room so she can see them everyday.

Always staying in her room, she kept herself occupied with T V programs. She loved the show Price is right, and Let's make a deal, Law and Order, and Unusual Suspects . She also enjoyed the Voice when it was on. She couldn't get out of bed much, so she watched her favorite programs and often has us watch with her.

She taught all her children, especially her daughters to be independent and strong. Teaching us that there is nothing you can't do, and to always see what needs to be done, don't wait to be told. To anticipate others need. She also instilled that expectation especially to me, as the oldest, 'take care of everything when I'm gone". "I'm counting on you to keep the family together from now on."

She was a strong woman till the end. She was never depressed, and looked forward to anyone who could visit her. She stayed always upbeat. Her only wish was I want to stay alive with all of you as much as I can to help you all. That was truly her one wish she said over and over. But one day she got really sick, and the pain was too much. I remember all her 5 children at her bedside in ICU. We all put our hands over her and told her, we are ok Mom, we're strong and will take care of each other, it's ok Mom, it's ok.

Lydia G Cortez lived for 86 years
and took her last breath on January 8th, 2025 at 9,:58. My brother in law Gary said , she waited till the end of the episode of Law and order which was on the TV of her hospital room before she took her last breath.

Mom, I miss you so much. Every cell in my body has the memory of your smile,, your humor, and all the love you showered me with. We all miss you so much. You always called me your angel, now Mom , you're mine. We will love you always, today, tomorrow, and always.

We love you so much Mama, the hole in our heart is filled by your love, and numerous words of encouragement and strength.
Rest in peace my angel.