Lydia Williams was a bright and ambitious young girl who grew into a beautiful, caring, and loyal young woman who radiated warmth wherever she went, according to her family
A family has opened its heart to pay tribute to a “beautiful and passionate” woman who died in her sleep at a hotel aged just 32. Lydia Williams’ loved ones say she’ll forever be remembered for her mischievous wit, bold nature, and extraordinary talent for lifting spirits during people’s bleakest times – touching lives throughout Wales and far beyond, reports Wales Online.
It was a determination and passion that remained with her throughout her short life. “She was the best friend anyone could have,” pals revealed. Lydia spent seven years living the United States alongside her husband, Ed, and their two cherished sphynx cats: El Blanco and Zorro, whom she “loved wholly.”
Yet, despite being thousands of miles away from home, she remained fiercely proud of her Welsh heritage. “She used to play Yma o Hyd by Dafydd Iwan on repeat,” her husband recalled. “It made her feel passionate about Wales.”
Lydia worked in marketing, promotions, and wedding coordination, partnering with firms such as Pulse, Mocka Lounge, and Elizabeth Arden, alongside numerous wedding venues.
Latterly, she had been based in New Hampshire, juggling promotional duties whilst guiding disadvantaged youngsters through a “buddying” programme.
“She gave 100% to everything she did,” her mother said. “I always reminded my beautiful daughter, whatever you do – never lose your sparkle. Sometimes that meant picking herself up and dusting herself off (like we all have to do from time to time), but Lydia carried on, empowering girls to support one another and to uplift each other. She wanted everyone to sparkle too.”
She adored globe-trotting with her husband, Ed, sharing his passion for African art, sampling regional cuisine, and seizing every opportunity life presented. Tributes have flooded in from all corners of the world for Lydia, from mates, colleagues, and even chance acquaintances.
“I’ve been swamped with messages,” her mum shared. “People have written to tell me that they met Lydia by happenstance – on a train, or in a queue – and she became part of their lives from that moment onwards. She gave people strength and solace in their darkest times, even if she’d never met them face-to-face.”
Those who knew her paint a picture of Lydia as naturally humorous, with an “off-the-wall” sense of humour, a profound empathy for others, and a radiant personality that could illuminate any room.
“She saw life as a wonderful adventure. She was creative as a child, and as an adult she continued her love for learning about new cultures, food, and wine – travelling with Ed and friends. The outpouring of love for her has filled us with pride.”
Even the team at Madrid’s Urban Hotel, where Lydia heartbreakingly died peacefully in her sleep, spoke fondly of her genuine nature. “She just loved chatting with people and listening to them – that’s why she resonated warmth with so many.”
The hotel staff have now pledged to hang a portrait of her within the venue as a lasting tribute.
Her mum revealed that Lydia had been “Happy and excited to come home for a Welsh Christmas.”
Her husband, Ed, said: “Marrying Lydia was, and will always be, the greatest decision of my lifetime. Although the years we had together ended far too soon, we filled those years travelling the world with enough memories to last a lifetime. She was the most incredible person I ever knew, and I will always love her with all of my heart.”
Her mother continued: “If we can learn anything from Lydia, it’s to follow your dreams, live life fully, hold on to loved ones, and be kind to others. She believed in treating everyone equally and building people up. We need more Lydias in this world. Life is short – live, love, laugh, and be happy.”
The family has extended their heartfelt thanks to all those who have shown kindness during this challenging period, including the Urban Hotel in Madrid, easyJet staff on the return flight, Cardiff County Club, and Mocka Lounge for their assistance in arranging Lydia’s celebration of life.
Lydia’s funeral service is set to take place at St Martin’s Church, Caerphilly, on Thursday, November 13, at 10.30am. Attendees are requested to dress smartly as the event will be a celebration of her life, featuring songs she cherished.
A private wake will follow at Cardiff County Club at 12.30pm, and an evening celebration to honour Lydia will commence from 6.30pm at Mocka Lounge Bar, Mill Lane, Cardiff – welcoming all friends, both old and new.
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