Lydia Claire Yentzen Wolford, 50 passed away Sunday, June 26, 2011 at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Beaumont. She was the youngest daughter of the late Wilfred "Sonny" Yentzen. She is survived by her mother, Neava Yentzen; son, Stuart Wolford of Beaumont; daughters, Julie Smith and her husband Jerry, and Abby Wolford of Lumberton; brothers, Gene Yentzen and wife, Judy of Johnson City, and Charles Yentzen of Groves; sisters, Aline Jacobs and husband, Tom of Praireville, LA, Lou Ellen Roccaforte and husband, Charles of Port Neches, Peggy Delino and husband, Henry of Port Neches, Alice Kemp and husband, Gary of Orange, Gayle Liscano and husband, Lorenzo of Port Arthur; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was a resident of Beaumont and member of St. Jude Catholic Church. She was a former teacher at Bishop Byrne High School and St. James Elementary in Port Arthur, and later taught at Hitchcock Elementary and Lumberton High School. Lydia received numerous service awards during her teaching career at Lumberton High School. She was Student Council Sponsor of the year in 1993 for District 19 and District Advisor of the year for 1997-1998 and District 17 sponsor of the year 2004-2005 at Lumberton High School. She won the top ten Award for Student Council four out of five years and only ten schools in Texas win this award, she also was the advisor for the Lumberton High School Yearbook. Under her leadership the Student Council organized drives to collect blankets and food for the poor and supplies for the local Women's Shelter, also collecting items for numerous families in need. A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, June 29, 2011 at St. James Catholic Church in Port Arthur, Texas with Reverend John Hughes and Reverend J. C. Coon officiating. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery. A visitation for family and friends will be held on Tuesday evening from 5:00p.m-8:00p.m. with a Rosary Service recited at 6:30p.m. at the funeral home.
Condolences
Levingston Funeral Home
November 2, 2021
1 file added to the album Obituary Wall
Lydia Claire Yentzen Wolford
August 4, 2020
Lydia Claire Wolford
Anonymous
June 30, 2011
I was saddened to hear of Lydia'a passing. Lydia and my sister, Nancy were best friends in high school and I spent a lot of time with them when I was a freshman. I have great memories of the time we spent just having fun. My deepest sympathy to her family.
Anonymous
June 29, 2011
What started as a normal teacher/student relationship turned into a wonderful friendship. Of course Stewart being in a body cast was horrible but that started an awesome bond between Lydia and I. My senior year we went to New York and not long after I graduated we took a bus trip to Mexico and had a blast! We became so close she was even a bridesmaid in my wedding 13 years ago! I loved her like a sister and will miss her so much! Seems like yesterday I was babysitting Julie, Stewart and Abby and they have grown up to be such beautiful adults. Your mom loved you and was so proud of each one of you. Stay strong and always keep her close to your heart and never forget the love she had for you! Cindy Alaniz
Anonymous
June 29, 2011
She was my teacher at LHS my junior and senior year, her first two years at LHS. She touched my life more than any teacher ever has, I loved her and regret that I lost contact with her. She gave her students freedom to explore their creativy. To her childeren, your mother was a great woman, I am saddened for your loss. She helped give my life direction. I will always remember her
Anonymous
June 29, 2011
Mrs. Wolford made a huge impact on my life. Through leadership, encouragement, and example she guided me to my passion of helping others in my personal and professional life. Because of her, I realized that I wanted to be a social worker and am pursuing that career. I am so thankful she was apart of my life and I will always think of her as a person of great influence. She will be missed.
Anonymous
June 29, 2011
To the Wolford and Yentsen families, we share in grief with each of you. May God bless and be with you in the coming years. Being Christian believers, we will not be left alone, but have the Lord's promise that we will all be united, once again. We are to rejoice, knowing that reunion will come, and thank Jesus Christ for His sacrifice to ensure that we will have eternal life with Him and one another.
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
Mrs. Wolford was one of my favorite teachers in high school. She helped me gain confidence as a writer, and she taught never to be afraid to speak my mind. I am so sad to hear she is gone, but feel so blessed that I knew her and so did so many people. She will be missed, and my prayers are with her family. Danielle Gilbert Bell LHS Class of 1998
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
My thoughts and prayers go out to family and friends.
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
Mrs. Wolford will be greatly missed. I have so many wonderful memories of her from journalism and yearbook. She was a wonderful teacher and a wonderful person. I was so sad to hear about her passing away. She has impacted countless lives and is greatly loved. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
Ms. Wolford was a wonderful teacher, yearbook advisor, and student council sponsor. She impacted many lives during her time at Lumberton High School, including mine. My prayers are with her family, children, and close friends.
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
May you all find comfort in God's love. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
Thoughts and prayers for all of you. Losing a sibling is very hard but knowing we have another angel watching over us is fantastic. God Bless you all.
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
Wolf, I am so grateful to have the opportunity to know you and serve with you. You were such a blessing in my life and very instrumental in developing the leadership skills I embrace today and I will never forget the confidence you had in my abilities. We shared many great times together in Student Council and Journalism. You were always there with an encouraging word or a letter of recommendation. Stuart, Julie and Abby: Thank you for sharing your mom with me. She was a special lady and gave selflessly to countless students through her tenure as an educator. I know you will continue to uphold her legacy. I pray that God will wrap his arms around your family and remind you of the sweet memories you shared together. Meagan Killam Hogg LHS Class of 2003
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
Words cannot express how amazing she was. I will always remember her and always admire her.
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
To Lydia's family....I worked with her at LHS and she was a pleasure to be around! I know she will be missed by all. love & prayers to all.
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
Stuart, we are so sorry to hear about your Mom. We don't know why these things happen, they are out of our control, but I do know she is definately in a better place. Remember all the memories you and your family shared together and that all she wants is for you to Be Happy. She loved you VERY much! Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. We are here for you anytime you need us. God Bless you and your family. Love, Tom and Donna
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
Mrs. Wolford touched so many lives in her time at Lumberton High School. She was one of the best teachers ever. She and I went to Austin together on a FHA trip to represent Lumberton. I have many great memories of her and our trip. She was also there for me when I lost my brother Tim in 1994, who she also taught in school. I had been out of school for 3 years when my brother passed and she came over to my house and sat with me for a while and talked with me about Tim. I also babysat Stuart and Julia a few times for her. She will always be in my heart!!!
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
Lydia was a wonderful teacher and co-worker who inspired her students and colleagues. She will be missed. I am deeply sorry for your loss.
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
I went to high school with Lydia and always knew her to be a kind and loving person. I am sure that she will be missed by all who knew her. My condolences to the entire family, I am truly sorry for your loss.
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
Mrs. Wolford was a wonderful teacher. I was in her photo journalism class. I will always remember her. I am praying for her family and for peace beyond all understanding during this time.
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
Your students will miss you dearly. You were one of my greatest teachers. (Class of 1995, Lumberton High School).
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
My prayers are with your family.
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
Very sorry to hear, our deepest condolences to the family. Lara, Dave, Grace, and Jacob Howarth
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
Lydia was my co-worker at Lumberton High School and a teacher to my oldest daughter. Most importantly, she was my friend. She will be missed...always.
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
LOU ELLEN & CHARLIE,, MY PRAYERS & CONDOLENCES GO OUT TO YOU AND THE FAMILY,, AS WE KNOW, LYDIA IS IN A BETTER PLACE AND WITHOUT ANYMORE SUFFERING,, WE HAVE A GREAT GOD AND SHE IS HOME AND IN HIS HANDS,,GOD BLESS THE FAMILY,,, GERALD
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
Mrs. Wolford was my 3rd Grade teacher at St. James Catholic School. She was an encourager and always pulled the best out of me. She was kind, loving, and caring - and will truly be missed. To the family I extend my condolences and I pray that the peace of God will comfort you during this time.
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
I'm so sorry to hear that Lydia has left us. She was a bright light and clearly loved by so many. She just got a promotion! Our prayers are with her family.
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
Sincere sympathy to all the Wolford kids and all of Lydia's family. I will ALWAYS remember your mom as a MOST kind and MOST giving person. She was a friend to ALL faculty, staff, and students. I'll never forget all the many community service projects that Student Council completed under her leadership. She was the type of teacher that EVERY student longs to have. May she be remembered for making lasting impressions on all the students that she taught. Sincerely, Mrs. Thomas (formerly of LHS)
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
Though my heart is heavy, the heavens above have one amazing new angel among them. Wolf, you were talented teacher, a Class A stu co sponsor, a tremendous theatre partner, a wonderful mentor, and a true friend of mine. I would not be where I am today without your support and guidance in my life. My prayers go out to Stuart, Julie, Abby, and the rest of Lydias family. Wolf was cherished by many and will be missed by all.
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
Lydia was a wonderful person. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family. BBHS classmate.
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
Lydia was a wonderful lady and will be missed. Stuart, Julie, and Abby: We are so sorry for your loss. You will be in our thoughts and prayers. If you need anything, we will be here for you. Victor, Twila and Clay Baker
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
My favorite memory of Mrs. Wolford: At the advice of my high school counselor, I took a public speaking class from Mrs. Wolford. This was challenging for me as I was very much an introvert. One of our assignments was to give a speech. I'll never forget how nervous I was to stand in front of my peers and deliver a speech about my grandfather who had recently passed away. My grief was overwhelming and my nerves were shaken. Mrs. Wolford encouraged me during the speech with a gentle smile and tears as I spoke about my loved one. I earned an "A" on the speech and her comments on my paper read, " I know this was difficult but you did a wonderful job...and it does get better with time...' My prayers are that you all, Mrs. Wolford's family, can find the peace that surpasses understanding and know that she made a remarkable difference in my life as a teenager during a difficult time in my life. With Deepest Sympathy, Angie Jackson, LHS Class of 1993
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
My sincere condolences to the family of Ms. Wolford. She was my beloved teacher @Lumberton High School, Class of 1993. A wonderful woman and friend of her students! Rest in Peace, Cherished One!
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
Lydia and I were good friends at St James in the 4th, 5th and 6th grade. I remember a slumber party at her home with all the girls from our class. We always had so much fun! I ran into her not too long ago at Parkdale Mall and we took the time to chat for a little while. It was difficult to share so much of our lives in such a short period of time but she was very happy. I'm so thankful that I got to see her. My prayers are for God's comfort and peace to her precious family. Know that His amazing grace will sustain each and every one of you and He will heal your broken hearts. Lydia, I will treasure the sweet memories my dear friend til we meet again. I love you! Your Friend, Tessy
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
I am so saddened to hear the news that Mrs. Wolford has passed away. I spent 3 years in her classes, and have so many fond memories of that time. She will be missed, and to this day is often thought of!!My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and close friends of Mrs Wolford!!! Lumberton High School Graduate (1997) Stephanie Thomas Toms
Anonymous
June 28, 2011
Mrs. Wolford was the best! Always positive & made sure to put you in a good mood. My thoughts & prayers go out to her family! She will be missed but never forgotten! Stefanie Raiford Little, Lumberton class of '93
Anonymous
June 27, 2011
Wolf, you will be missed by so many. Thank you so much for making such a positive difference in Chance's life. I know he is not the only one that learned so much from you. Truly, now you are surely leading the angels! I pray for peace and comfort for your family and loved ones, as we all will miss you, until we are reunited one day.
Anonymous
June 27, 2011
You will be missed prayers are with your family
Anonymous
June 27, 2011
You have touched so many lives and will truly be missed. You were an inspiration to all of your students. You cared for our children as if they were your own. Prayers are with your family as they endure the most difficult days ahead of them. RIP Wolf!
Anonymous
June 27, 2011
So sorry to hear of Lydia's passing. She was always such fun in school. I really loved her sense of humor. She will be missed by so many. Our prayers are with all of you.
Anonymous
June 27, 2011
My prayers to Lydia's family during this time of sorrow. Lydia was a good person who made an impact on many people, students as well as those who worked around her! I had the pleasure of knowing Lydia for a few years when I worked with her at LHS.She will be missed by the many people who loved her.Rest in peace Lydia, you have a new body, one without pain.I will miss you...
Anonymous
June 27, 2011
Love to all. I remember seeing Lydia at St. Mary's Hospital the day she was born. She will be dearly missed. Love you all.
Anonymous
June 27, 2011
mrs wolford was a huge influence in my professional career choices. she taught me so much and was an amazing teacher and friend. i am so sad for her passing and am praying for her family as they seek comfort during this horrible time.
Anonymous
June 27, 2011
Lydia was such a sweet sweet lady. I'm so sorry her children didn't have more years with their dear mom.She will be missed but never forgotten.
Anonymous
June 27, 2011
Our entire family is saddened by the loss of our neighbor and friend. Wishing we could turn back time and have one more chance to talk to her. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to her family. We will keep you in our prayers. Love, Cliff, Cassie, Holly & Josh
Anonymous
June 27, 2011
Lydia was a dear friend and neighbor who was beautiful inside and out. We are going to miss her so much. We are praying especially for her children, as well as the rest of her family, for peace and understanding, taking comfort in knowing that she is with her heavenly father and is no longer suffering. We love you and will miss you Lydia. Until we meet again, Lee, Stacie, Madeline & Collin
Anonymous
June 27, 2011
LHS class of 95. She fought me how to do photography and was a great leader while I was in student council and yearbook. Will miss you.
Anonymous
June 27, 2011
Mrs. Wolford was one of my favorite teachers! She made an impact in my life and to this day I still tell a joke that she had told to me! She was kind, funny, witty, and she will be missed!
Anonymous
June 27, 2011
My prayers and condolences are with you at this very sad time. I taught with Lydia at Lumberton High School.
Anonymous
June 27, 2011
Thoughts and prayers.