Obituary of Lydia Delos Reyes

Lydia Delos Reyes, 86, passed away peacefully at Virginia Hospital Center on Saturday, December 16th, 2017 at 5:15 pm surrounded by her family and friends after a swift and unexpected illness. She was born in Caloocan City, Philippines on Monday, January 26th, 1931 to Arsenio and Petra Mendoza and had two sisters and three brothers. She was remarkably bright and studious and received a degree in pharmacy from Manila Central University. At the age of 26, she met and instantly fell in love with her husband Fernando at a public town dance in Cabiao, Philippines. In 1959, she bravely left her family and friends in the Philippines to journey to America to be with her future husband Fernando Delos Reyes who was stationed in California in the United States Coast Guard. They were married on October 29th, 1959 in San Francisco. Over time they had three beautiful children and eventually settled in Arlington, Virginia. Continuing a career in medicine and compassionate service, she worked as a respiratory therapist for 25 years at the Virginia Hospital Center (formerly known as Arlington Hospital). Throughout her life she traveled extensively with her family and friends and had many adventures. Lydia exuded warmth and generosity, and welcomed everyone who crossed her home’s threshold as family. Her integrity and generosity made her a beacon of good counsel and aid. She touched many lives who loved her dearly in return. Lydia was a woman of strong faith and devotion and is now living in light and joy with her God. She is survived by her beloved husband of 58 years, Fernando Delos Reyes. She is remembered by her three children Roslyn, Ronald, Richard and his wife Taunya as well as her four grandchildren, Ronald, Jillian, Ryan, and Robert. A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, December 27th, 2017 at 2pm at the Cathedral of St. Thomas More in Arlington, Virginia led by Fr. Christiansen. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts in her honor may be made to the Virginia Hospital Foundation: Virginia Hospital Center Foundation 1701 N. George Mason Drive Arlington, VA 22205 In Memory of Lydia Delos Reyes In addition – in memoriam gifts can be made online by completing the tribute gift portion https://www.virginiahospitalcenter.com/supportthehospital/donate_online.aspx