Lydia Berta Sandoval

BROWNSVILLE, TX. – Lydia Berta Sandoval, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on the 6th of October 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on August 3, 1940, in Brownsville, Texas, Lydia lived a life marked by kindness, dedication, and unwavering love for those around her.

Throughout her career in education, Lydia inspired countless students and colleagues. She served with distinction at Los Fresnos Consolidated Independent School District from 1963 to 1964 and Point Isabel Independent School District from 1964 to 1986, where she was known for her pride and loyalty. She truly “bled blue” during her years at Point Isabel. She concluded her remarkable career with the Brownsville Independent School District at Hanna High School from 1986 until her retirement in 2001. Her commitment to her students and community reflected her generous spirit and belief in the power of education.

Lydia shared 63 wonderful years of marriage with her devoted husband, Gilberto Sandoval, Sr. His vigil never wavered; he stayed by his wife’s side, a constant presence of love, until the very end. Together, they built a family grounded in love, laughter, and faith. She was the proud mother of Gilberto Sandoval, Jr. (Susana Andaverde), Javier “Peanut” Sandoval (Teresa), and Lucinda Sandoval Maddox (Mark). Lydia found immense joy in being “Grandma” to her grandchildren Arturo Javier “AJ” Sandoval, Matthew Gilberto Maddox, and Samuel Luke Maddox, as well as “Grandma Peanut” to Jimmy Limon (Daniela) and Lizette Richards (Cameron).

She is also survived by her loving brother-in-law, Miguel Sandoval (Eva), and by numerous nieces and nephews who cherished her warmth, wisdom, and compassion.

Lydia was preceded in death by her mother, Lucinda Gonzalez; by her parents-in-law, Maria and Emilio Sandoval; by her brother-in-law, Emilio Sandoval II; and by her sister-in-law, Leonarda Camarrillo (Joe).

Lydia’s life reflected her faith, generosity, and deep devotion to her family. Her gentle strength and loving heart will continue to guide and inspire all who were blessed to know her.

Visiting hours will be held on Wednesday, the 8th of October 2025 between the hours of two o’clock in the afternoon and nine o'clock at night, with the recitation of the holy rosary to be recited at seven o'clock Wednesday evening within the East Chapel of Darling-Mouser Funeral Home. The family welcomes friends and loved ones to join in honoring her memory and the beautiful life she lived.

The Funeral Service will be celebrated at two o'clock in the afternoon on Thursday, the 9th of October 2025 at the historic Immaculate Conception Cathedral, 1218 E. Jefferson Street, Brownsville. Interment will then follow, via an escorted procession, at Rose Lawn Memorial Gardens, 4464 Old Port Isabel Road, Brownsville.

Honored to serve as her pallbearers will be Arturo Sandoval, Matthew Maddox, Samuel Maddox, Gilberto Sandoval, Javier Sandoval, and Mark Maddox.

The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thanks to Dr. Todd Shenkenberg and his staff for the care and attention provided towards Lydia.

Memories of Lydia may be shared at www.darlingmouser.com.

Personalized funeral arrangements directed by Steven R. Hieu Bailey, CFSP and Staff have been entrusted to the care of Darling-Mouser Funeral Home at 945 Palm Boulevard in Brownsville, Texas 78520, (956) 546-7111.