LYDIA WILLIS

June 29, 1955 - May 21, 2022

Lydia Ann Willis, aged 66, was born June 29, 1955 in Riverside, California to loving parents Melchor and Consuelo Rangel. An energetic and friendly young girl with a zest for life and a never-ending infectious smile, she was a joyful child, with an inquisitive mind and a deep faith in God. Lydia attended John W. North High School and after graduation, enrolled in California State San Bernardino to further her education. Not long after college, Lydia met and married the love of her life, Richard H. Willis on June 14, 1980. So began the creation of the family that Lydia had dreamed of, and that would become the main focus of her life and heart. She was the biggest cheerleader and fan for her two sons, Josh and Jake - a true supermom. She loved watching them in every pursuit, from school to sports, to career success, nothing made her happier than to watch them grow, shine and accomplish. Lydia was recognized by many for her dedication and work ethic. Working at Arlington Radiology for 25 years and Parkview Hospital for 15 years, she was noted for many marketing and career successes throughout that time. Taking charge and solving problems was always second nature to her. But without question, spending quality time with her family and friends was Lydia’s favorite pastime. Nothing mattered more to her than her family, and making sure they were doing well. A super creative type with many hobbies, she loved anything and everything Arts and Crafts, was a lifelong Dodger baseball fan, and loved shopping - especially for anything Disney related. As a devout catholic with a huge, caring heart, Lydia’s faith was her core and strength, and an important part of her life. Through that faith, giving back to her community and helping others was always foremost on her mind. She was a daily caregiver for her beloved mother Connie, and was always there for a friend, family member, or even a stranger in need. Nothing made her feel better than to know that she had lent a helping hand and made a difference in someone’s life. Lydia passed away May 21, 2022 in Ontario, CA of Covid related complications and will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed. She is survived by her husband, Richard H. Willis, sons Joshua Willis and Jacob Willis, mother Connie Rangel, sister Linda Shine, niece Michelle De La Cruz, nephew Michael Shine, great niece Sacha Priolo, great great niece Jade Priolo, and many more cousins and extended ‘chosen’ family members. We pray together that her soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. A service celebrating Lydia’s life will be held on Wednesday, June 22nd at Our Lady of Guadalupe Shrine in Riverside at 11am.