Lydia “Gurule” Lankford, 89, of Tempe Arizona, went home to be with our Lord King Jesus on September 28, 2022. Lydia was born May 13, 1933 in Vallecitos, New Mexico. She is survived by her loving daughters Christina, Josie, Julie, Theresa, Barbara, Sarah, and Lisa. She leaves behind her legacy of 4 generations of children. Lydia had 7 daughters, 16 grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren, and 6 great great grandchildren whom she gave her all to. She also has numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends that she loved dearly. Her best friend was her sister Betty Lankford, they shared a lifetime of memories and love.
Lydia’s love for people was so great, she was always willing to help someone in need. Whether it was a place to stay, food, or just listening she was always there. She loved angels, butterflies, gardening, sewing, crocheting, watching the Phoenix Suns, and also watching Nascar. She had a light inside her that shone out, all it took was a few moments for you to notice how truly one of a kind she was.
That light in her life was Jesus, she loved him with all of her heart, soul, mind, and body. Anytime life handed her struggles she leaned on Jesus. She would want us to share God’s love with others, and to lean on him during this hard time as we say not goodbye, but see you later.
Isaiah 53:5 “But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed.”
The funeral will be at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home at 4800 E. Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018 on Thursday, October 6, 2022 starting at 10:00 am with her viewing, and the service at 11:00 am. The burial will be held at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery right after the services, located at 2033 N. 48th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85008. Lunch will follow at the Elks Lodge Scottsdale at 6398 E. Oak St. Scottsdale, AZ 85257.
Lydia Varela
Hola my ñame is Lydia Varela, and I met Julie mom Lydia quite a few years ago, and we both have the beautiful name of Lydia, Julie and I worked together at Vitals, and we became good friends, Lydia was a sweetheart, she loved the Suns and when I would see her, we talked about the novelas, Lydia is with our Lord now, has her Angels Wings and is pain free Sending prayers to the family to have comfort and peace
Kiki Gurule
From Kiki Gurule
Thank you for being kind, understanding, warming, and soothing. You have a special energy that made us feel loved and special.. You are truly blessed and loved and your great spirit will live through us ( Familia) Tell my Grandpa Joe Isidro Gurule I love him. And for you thank you for showing me a kindness that only Angels can give..
Alex G
Thank you for being such a positive role model taking care of me never judging me always accepting me for who i am . continuing to strengthen me and show me the way. Ill never forget any of the things you taught and showed me. I miss you love you with all of my heart n soul until we meet again
Kim and Anita Nevius
Memories so many memories. Cousin Lydia was so special. Your daughters are beautiful and sweet. Your extended family is your legacy. Rest in the arms of Angels. You will be dancing now ( our secret joke). Thank you for your prayers and encouragement while battling this horrible disease. I hope I will see you in heaven. I know you are there having a special talk with your Mom.
My dear cousin Lydia ❤️ and family. Sending our love. We will be there in prayer.
Kim and Anita
Joanna Anaya (TJ’s daughter)
Our family wishes they could be there with you all o support you through this hard time. Just know we love you and our thoughts and prayers are with you. Aunt Lydia was a beautiful lady inside and out and what a great reunion it will be when we reunite. Take care
Tina
RJ and I will miss your precious face, your sweet words you will remain in our hearts and minds, going to Phoenix to see you , trips with family when my Dad drove and now he is with you in heaven, I’m sure he was there to greet you. Let him know that we miss him, Until we meet again, we love you my wonderful aunt fly with angels.