Lydia Carreno Caruthers

Obituary for Lydia Carreno Keen Johnson England Caruthers 

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lydia, who departed this world on July 20, 2024. Born on August 3, 1938, in Cienfuegos, Cuba, Lydia lived a life filled with love, determination, and resilience. Lydia's journey to the United States in 1958 was a testament to her courage and tenacity. With the support of her beloved Aunt Carmen and cousin Louisa, she embarked on a new chapter, teaching herself English and how to drive. Her spirit was unyielding, and her heart was vast, embracing every challenge and joy with grace and humor. 

Lydia is survived by her three devoted children, Lewis (Cheryl) Keen, Peter (Carla) Keen, and Vicky (Chris) Hupe. She was the proud grandmother to seven grandchildren, Brittany (Chase) Dudley, Wesley Keen, Austin Keen, Megan (Rodney) Bell, Remington (Sierra) Keen, Fallon (Joseph) Maxey, and Christopher Hupe. Her legacy continues through her six great-grandchildren, Barron, Link, and Shiloh Dudley; Remi and Emmitt Keen; Carlee Bell; and a little one on the way, Liam Maxey. Lydia also leaves behind her husband Lewis Caruthers, step children, countless cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who became like family. She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Lewis Keen; her third husband, Gary England; and her brother, George "Pucho" Carreno. Lydia's surviving brothers, Edwardo Carreno in Florida and Pedro Carreno in Cienfuegos, Cuba, along with their families, continue to honor her memory. 

One of her proudest accomplishments was helping her nephew and niece, David and Daniella Carreno, move from Cuba to the US, ensuring their safety and new opportunities. Lydia's life was marked by her wonderful sense of humor and her love for music. She was beyond proud of her children and grandchildren, finding immense joy in their achievements and lives. Despite the struggles she faced, she taught us invaluable lessons in perseverance and the power of starting over. She believed that when you hit rock bottom, the only way to go is up, and that playing with fire would inevitably result in getting burned. Her wisdom and sayings, such as tomorrow will be better will forever be etched in our memories. As an extraordinary mother, Lydia cherished every moment with her children and longed for more time with them. 

Her absence leaves a profound void in our hearts, and she will be missed tremendously by all who knew and loved her. Lydia, your legacy of love, strength, and humor will live on in our hearts forever. Rest in peace, dear mother, abuela, and friend.

Visitation will be on Thursday, July 25, 2024, from 5 – 7 pm at the Riemann Family Funeral Home, 13872 Lemoyne Blvd, West Jackson County. Visitation will also be on Friday, July 26, 2024 from 10 – 11 am at Pleasant Hill Methodist Church, 111 Pleasant Hill Church Road, Lucedale, MS. The funeral service will be at 11 am in the church. Interment will be in Pleasant Hill Church Cemetery.  Floral arrangements, plants or donations to the Lord is my Help in Ocean Springs, MS are welcome.

 The Riemann Family Funeral Home, 13872 Lemoyne Blvd, West Jackson County, is serving the family.