Obituary of Lila Camacho Mendez

Lila “Lily” Frances Camacho Méndez, 90, widow of Radames R Méndez went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, November 9, 2021. Lily was married to Radames R. Méndez for nearly 50 years until her beloved passed. They lived in the Bronx, NY. They had four children. Sarah Aida Jones (Wayne), Stephen Abraham Méndez (Betty), Daniel Paul Méndez (Mayra), and Deborah Esther Medina (Rick). Known for her fighting spirit and stubborn streak, Lila (Lily) Frances Camacho Méndez was a fighter till the end. Those close to her know her sweet tooth was as big as the USA, she proved it. When she lost her appetite, her desire for sweets remained. Lily’s granddaughter, also her amazing caregiver, Deborah Morales-Hamlin, fed her some powdered sugar, Boston cream, and a lollipop that she enjoyed. Lacy, one of the Hospice workers, called Lily her little Energizer Bunny, and said she would enter Lily’s name into the Hospice Hall of Fame. Neither Lacy nor Brittany, Lily’s other Hospice caregiver, witnessed such determination to live. Lily passed her standard expected date on earth multiple times, but this is who she was: a fighter. She was also generous, determined to help even when her help was rejected or her efforts were misunderstood. She stood her ground. The battle ended when heaven opened its arms and embraced her on November 9, 2021. She was surrounded by many family members. Lily was born in New York City on October 14, 1931. She was predeceased in death by her parents, Oscar E. Camacho and Maria Velasquez Camacho. Her siblings are Oscar Camacho (Elvira), Henry Camacho (Marie), and Aida aka Honey Rivera (Carmelo). Lily was a dedicated and committed worker until she retired. She had two jobs as a public-school secretary and Lehman College assistant part-time. Both Lily and Rada also chauffeured her former boss and good friend from Lehman College, Carol Ka-chuen Gee, to run errands and trips together. She was a walking historical encyclopedia, and knew names, birthdays, and historical and current events. She was a whiz at scrabble and crossword puzzles. She lacked the ability to carry a tune, but knew how to play the piano. She loved road trips and had a sense of humor. Her love for Jesus was her real passion and became the driving force in everything she did. She went to great lengths to introduce her children to Him. She took them to different church functions, concerts, conferences near and far so they could experience the fullness of His love. Lily and Rada kept their doors open to extend that passion and minister to others. Rada’s gentle character gave Lily permission to take many under her wing, like Hannah Flores and her daughter Debra Maldonado. For years, Lily typed papers for college students. She bonded with one student, Dianah Cantres who maintained that friendship until the end. Lily helped countless people through the years, from her children, grandchildren, great children, great-great grandchildren, family, and friends. She always made herself available to help in ways others wouldn’t with gymnastics classes, rent, college, and more. As she hung on in her final days, many called to express their appreciation for all she did for them. Lily’s daughter Sarah and her granddaughter Michelle Morales were with Deborah Morales-Hamlin during those final days. The memories of Lily will be forever cherished and treasured, because she made that much of an impact on so many lives, giving selflessly. She was truly a good and faithful friend and servant. The Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held 1pm Monday at Fletcher Funeral Service. The family will receive friends an hour prior. The family will have a Celebration of life at Fordham Manor, 2705 Reservoir Ave, Bronx, NY 10468, Date to be announced. Lily's favorite color was lilac. In her honor, if you can wear that color, that would be appreciated. All donations to help cover the funeral costs can be sent using check or money order to: Debbie Morales-Hamlin, 212 Falcon Drive Fountain Inn SC 29644 or by using the Cash App to $dakotamonkey Include Lily's name. Radames and Lila’s Grandchildren: Elliot Morales (Crystal) Serena Morales Michelle Morales Stephen Méndez Victoria Medina Deborah Morales Hamlin (Richard) Sarah Grace Morales (predeceased) Rebecca Medina Timothy Jones (Camry) Abel Méndez Alani Méndez Karlie Méndez Great Grandchildren: Aliyah Stewart Aniyah Stewart Adarius Stewart Adorien Stewart Amari Stewart Dakota Morales-Hamlin Stephen Méndez II (Ashley) Thomas Méndez Alora Méndez Everly Morales Reinaldo Morales Samuel Morales Willow Jones Laina Jones Great-Great Grandchildren Kyrie & Kameron Stewart-Latimer Natalia Boozer Jayden Stewart Kaylin & Khelani Anderson Knowledge Anderson