Lydia Williams, from Wales, tragically died in her sleep at a hotel against 32 and now her family and pals have paid tribute saying she was “the best friend anyone could have”
A woman aged just 32 has tragically died in her sleep while staying at a hotel with her mum saying she will “never lose her sparkle” as tributes poured in.
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. It was a determination and passion that remained with her throughout her short life.
She 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.” Pals said: “She was the best friend anyone could have.”
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,” Ed 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.
Recently 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 mum 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 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.”
Lydia died peacefully in her sleep at Madrid’s Urban Hotel and staff have said they will hang a portrait of her at the venue as a lasting tribute. Her mum revealed that Lydia had been: “Happy and excited to come home for a Welsh Christmas.”
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.
