Jin-Lyan Brockett

Jin-Lyan Brockett, whom most knew as "Mona," passed away peacefully in her sleep, surrounded by family, in Panorama City, California, on July 22, 2016. She was 63 years old. We will celebrate her life on Thursday, August 4th, at 2:00 p.m. at the Wee Kirk O' the Heather chapel at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale, California. In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation be made in Mona's memory to Hope for Paws Animal Rescue, http://www.hopeforpaws.org/donationrecurring.

Mona is survived by her husband William of Lancaster, California; two daughters, Ginger Jones of Virginia, and Heather Brockett of Los Angeles; son Nevin Brockett of Rancho Mirage; and three grandchildren, Aidan, Logan, and Ronan Jones. She is survived in Taiwan by her mother Su Chao-Jung; brother Su Suen-Ping; two nieces, Su Yingo, and Su Yao-Luen; and two nephews, Su Jing-Li and Su Myung-Hu.

She was preceded in death by her father Su Ching-Feng and her brother Su Nam-Sheng.

Mona was born in southern Taiwan's port city of Kaohsiung in the year of the Dragon, on December 9th, 1952. The second child and only daughter, she was named Jin-Lyan - which means "Golden Lotus" in English.

The daughter of a tailor, Mona grew up in humble circumstances and left home to seek a better life in her early teens. She was fearless, independent, and developed a fiery confidence beyond her years. She was charismatic, with a radiant smile that lit up her face, her eyes and the entire room. When she met Bill, he didn't stand a chance.

They married in 1975 and she left Taiwan for the first time. The trip to America was a three month adventure honeymoon that explored a dozen places across Asia, Europe and New York, before settling in California. She was determined to become American, studying English and completing her GED. She worked hard to become a citizen, frequently asking questions that sent family to the books.

Mona's first child, Ginger, arrived in 1979, followed by Nevin in 1980, and Heather in 1988. In 1984 Mona became a Naturalized Citizen and the family moved to a country home in the Vacaville hills. She loved gardening and with her green thumb, flowers, fruits and vegetables flourished. She loved children and was an active volunteer at the kids' schools. Her heart went out to animals - especially dogs - and a diverse menagerie found a warm and loving home in her care.

After nearly 20 years, Bill's job relocated to the Antelope Valley and Mona, Heather and Bill moved to the high desert. Mona missed the green hills of Vacaville but came to appreciate what southern California had to offer. There was more time for travel and more frequent opportunities to visit home in Taiwan.

Grandchildren began to arrive in 2009. Each and every one brought absolute joy. She delighted in sharing her Taiwanese culture with the boys - especially the food.

After Mona became ill, that love of family sustained her. Throughout this difficult past year, she fought bravely to stay here with us as long as she could. Even at the very end, she was beautiful, graceful, and her smile still lit up the room.

Wherever she went, Mona blessed her surroundings with undeniable charm and positive energy, touching all who crossed her path without even realizing it. Those who knew her marvel that such strength, such passion, and such personality could shine from such a tiny lady. Now she lives in our hearts and suffers no more. We will always love her. She will never be forgotten.