Lilia R Gandulla-Normand

Lilia Rivas Gandulla-Normand eased into eternal rest on September 6, 2018 at the age of 86 surrounded by family and the sound of music. The matriarch of a large extended family, she began her life in her beloved, Mexico on June 1, 1932, and moved with her family to Las Vegas, Nevada in 1965. To the many that knew her, Lilia was an inspiring person who commanded respect, gave generously, and loved wholeheartedly.

Well-known in the communities she called home and to which she traveled, Lilia was at-once universally adored by the many people she enveloped in love and friendship during her lifetime. Many will remember her vivacious energy, charm, warmth, humor, strength, and desire to consistently enjoy life to its fullest. Her home was the source of many gatherings and shared laughter, stories, and meals over the years. She also became an avid traveler, despite a disadvantaged start to her life, and toured the world. As a mother, tireless worker and entrepreneur, she was also very spiritually-minded and began each morning in prayer.  She encouraged the same fervor for life and imparted valuable lessons about forgiveness and the importance of family.

After a 40-year residency in Las Vegas, Lilia moved to Davie, Florida with her husband, by whom she is survived, Jean-Guy Normand (m. 2007). She is also survived by 11 children who respectfully and lovingly referred to Lilia as "my mom" when speaking of her: Ana Zozaya-Cardenas, Juan Zozaya, José Emilio Zozaya, José Francisco Zozaya, Rosa Zozaya, Lily Fasbender, Eva Zozaya, Manuel Zozaya, , Gina Zozaya, Ralph Gandulla Jr., and Manny Gandulla. She is further survived and missed by 27 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren to whom she was known as "Grandma Lily" “La Generala”or simply "abuelita."

In Lieu of Flowers
http://action.lung.org/goto/forlilia