Stephanie Melendez-Vazquez

It is with sad regret, that we inform you that Stephanie peacefully ended her hard fought battle with cancer and was called home on Wednesday, October 18, 2017, at 4:30 a.m. Stephanie was a loving wife, mother, friend, warrior, and most importantly, a survivor. She survives her battle with cancer through all of us…her family and friends whom were so touched by her love, that she will live in our hearts forever. Although her battle with cancer was difficult, it did not define Stephanie or her life. For Stephanie’s life story is one of love; love shared between a husband and wife, love of family and friends, and most importantly a mother’s love for her three beautiful children. Her battle with cancer was filled with ups and downs- through years of radiation, surgeries and chemo, but through the Grace of God she pushed on. The ups far outweighed the downs, and included the overwhelming love, support and prayers she received from Luis, her children, family, friends and even strangers. Her positive outlook on life, her undying spirit, courage and strength are nothing short of awe inspiring. Her love of dance, music, family and friends would warm even the coldest of hearts, and in spite of everything that was going on around her, there was always laughter… lots of it! And let’s not forget the jokes she would crack on anyone within earshot! To know Stephanie is to love her, for she is an amazing soul with a genuine heart of gold. Through it all, her faith and love for her husband and children, family, and friends gave her the strength and courage to beat each obstacle thrown her way. She is an inspiration to all. Even when she wasn't feeling at her best, she would somehow end up comforting those around her, because she cared so deeply for those she loved and was selfless to the very end. Now we have to try to find the strength to live on without her, knowing that she will only be in our hearts and memories. But let’s not forget, this is a story about love that will live forever and will never fade. Her love is like the wind, we can't see it but we can feel it every single day. Many of you have asked what you can do for Luis and the girls, so we have set up this fund for the family. Please follow the link for any dontations: https://www.gofundme.com/stephanie-melendez-memorial-fund We want to thank you for all of your prayers, love, support and kind words during this difficult time, and leave you with this poem as words of hope and encouragement, for we will see Stephanie again! Safely Home by Author Unknown I am home in heaven, dear ones; Oh, so happy and so bright. There is a perfect joy and beauty in this everlasting light. All the pain and grief is over, every restless tossing passed; I am now at peace forever, safely home in heaven at last. Did you wonder, I so calmly Trod the valley of the shade? Oh, but Jesus’ love illuminated Every dark and fearful glade. And He came Himself to meet me in the way so hard to tread; And with Jesus’ arm to lean on could I have one doubt or dread? Then you must not grieve so sorely, for I love you dearly still. Try to look beyond death’s shadows; Pray to trust our Father’s will. There is work still waiting for you, so you must not idly stand. Do it now, while life remaineth; you shall rest in Jesus’ land. When that work is all completed, He will gently call you home; Oh, the rapture of that meeting; Oh, the joy to see you come!

Stephanie Melendez-Vazquez

May 25, 1984 - October 18, 2017