With heavy hearts and deep love, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Elidia Pantoja, affectionately known as Lilly. Surrounded by her children and loved ones, she passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at the age of 70, embraced by the same love she so freely gave throughout her life.

Born on March 30, 1955, in Texas to Severo Pantoja and Sara Valdez, Lilly's life radiated the warmth and light of God's love from the very beginning. She carried gentle strength and deep compassion that touched the hearts of all who knew her. Wherever life took her, she left behind kindness, joy, and a lasting impression of grace.

Lilly was the cornerstone of our family, a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose presence exuded warmth and resilience. Her legacy lives on through her children and their families: Esmeralda and Manuel SanPedro, Anna and Ernesto Jr. Balderas, Araceli and James Emerizy, Miranda and Christian Gadea, Vanisa, Christina, Juan, and Ramiro. Each carries a treasured part of her soul, the strength, humility, kindness, and unwavering faith that defined her. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were her greatest joy, and they continue to honor her memory through their laughter, love, and lives.

She is also survived by her beloved siblings: Ermenegildo, Javier, Manuel, and Juanita. Lilly will always be remembered for her radiant smile, generous heart, and unwavering devotion to family.

A woman of deep and abiding faith, Lilly was a cherished member of her spiritual community as one of Jehovah's Witnesses. Her belief in God's promises shaped her life, giving her strength, peace, and purpose. She lived each day guided by love and humility, offering kindness to strangers, comfort to friends, and encouragement to all. Her unshakable hope in the resurrection and everlasting life filled her heart with peace, and that same hope now brings comfort to us as we hold onto the beautiful promise that we will see her again in Paradise.

Throughout her courageous battle with cancer, Lilly embodied grace, dignity, and unwavering faith. Even in pain, she uplifted others with her presence, reminding us to cherish each moment and love without reservation. Her resilience stood as a quiet testimony to the power of faith and a mother's love.

Though our hearts ache in her absence, we find solace in the precious memories she leaves behind, the sound of her laughter, the warmth of her embrace, and the way she made every person feel truly seen and deeply loved. Her spirit lives on in every kind gesture, every family tradition, and every hopeful prayer spoken in her name.

Rest peacefully, dear Lilly. Your light will shine in our hearts forever.