Lilly Bessy Long (Soares), 95, of Chico, California, passed away peacefully on December 29, 2025, in Redding, California.

Born on November 29, 1930, in Vienna, Austria, Lilly was educated at a Catholic finishing school in England, where she embodied elegance, grace, and effortless kindness. She embraced her heritage and spoke with pride about her journey to the United States, sharing her story with resilience, gratitude, and warmth.

Lilly loved tending her garden, keeping her home’s front and back yards beautifully cared for, and creating special spaces for her grandchildren. She built a kitchen in a small shed where they could make mud pies and enjoy playful adventures, including helping her grandchildren catch tadpoles. Through it all, she chose kindness, spreading joy and generosity to everyone she met.

She worked for many years at Butte College, earning respect for her dedication and positive influence. Lilly gave her time generously to the Elks, Enloe Hospital, and the VFW, quietly helping wherever she was needed. She also enjoyed puzzles, knitting, daily walks, and the simple pleasures of life, always finding ways to lift the spirits of those around her.

Lilly was preceded in death by James Watkins and John Soares. She is survived by her children: Rob and Diana Soares; Sandy Soares; Connie Barrett; Doug and Barbara Soares, and Mary and Ted Triantafilu; as well as ten grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren who adored her.

A quote that reflected Lilly’s life comes from Mother Teresa: “Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier.” Lilly lived this truth every day, choosing kindness and leaving a legacy of love, joy, and generosity.

Funeral services will be held on January 12, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Brusie Funeral Home followed by a graveside service at Chico Cemetery in Chico, California. Family and friends are invited to attend and celebrate her life.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made payable to Butte Humane Society and sent to Brusie Funeral Home or online at www.buttehumane.org/donate