Carmen Lydia Paneque

February 22, 1940 - August 30, 2019

Carmen Lydia Paneque (Torres) passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on Friday, August 30, 2019. She was 79 years old. Lydia was born on February 22, 1940 in Manití, Puerto Rico. Lydia worked a bookkeeper prior to meeting the love of her life, Major Anthony Louis Paneque Jr., in 1970 in Brooklyn, New York. In August of 1984, they moved their family to Eastampton, New Jersey where they spend the rest of their lives. Family was the most important thins in Lydia’s life. Her home was always open to family and friends and Lydia enjoyed hosting family celebrations. She always had an open ear and open heart and was full of advice for anyone who needed it. Lydia was a devout Christian and her spiritual wisdom came through in all of her conversations. Lydia, along with her family joined the First Presbyterian Church in Mt. Holly in 1984. Lydia greatly enjoyed the many years that she spent as a member of the Women’s Prayer Group and appreciated the fellowship and friendships that she developed as a member of the Group. Lydia’s life was not without trial. She was blessed to be raised by four strong aunts in Puerto Rico which prepared her for all kinds of trials and tribulations in life especially motherhood, which was her greatest joy in life. Lydia was blessed with two wonderful children, Andrew and Vanessa. Andrew over time was diagnosed with Muscular Dystrophy and Lydia’s faith in God brought her through tough times as she cared for him. Making sure her children never wanted for anything was her goal which she achieved. Lydia was an excellent cook; most known for her flan at the holidays. She enjoyed gardening and had the amazing ability to grow flowers everywhere she placed her blessed hands. Lydia is survived by her daughter Vanessa Paneque and her only grandson Ricardo Antonio Paneque; brothers Rafael Torres (Sandra) and Arcadio Torres (Nancy), sisters Carmen Velez (Joey), Blanca Lopez (Jose) and Martiza Torres; many cousins, nieces, nephews, and countless friends. She was an exemplary pillar of faith, family and generosity. Lydia will be greatly missed. Please join our family in attending Lydia’s visitation on Monday September 9th, from 5pm-8pm at Perinchief Chapels, 438 High Street, Mount Holly, NJ and from 9am-10am on September 10th at the First Presbyterian Church in Mount Holly 125 Garden Street, Mount Holly NJ.. Funeral services will be held at 10am on Tuesday September 10th at the First Presbyterian Church in Mount Holly, interment will follow the services at the Brid. Gen. William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery.