Tayde M Regalado

Tayde Regalado (née Martinez), aged 93, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2026, in Naperville, Illinois. Born on April 26, 1932, in Chicago, Illinois, Tayde lived a long and fulfilling life marked by her dedication to family, her career, and her vibrant personality.

Tayde began her professional journey as a secretary in downtown Chicago before pursuing training as a beautician. She later worked at the cosmetics counter at K&S Pharmacy in South Shore. Her passion for helping others led her to become a teacher's aide at W.K. Sullivan Elementary School in the Bush section of Chicago, and eventually a bilingual aide at Douglas Taylor Elementary School on the Southeast side of Chicago, and McCormick Elementary School in the La Villita section of Chicago. It was in these roles that she found her greatest joy, assisting children in learning English and navigating the challenges of growing up in poverty.

Family was central to Tayde’s life. She is survived by her four children: Charles Martines; Romel Regalado and his wife Patricia; Loren Mora and her husband Jose; and Julie Regalado. Tayde cherished the grandchildren who brought her immense joy: Karina Mora-Metts and her husband Michael; Daniel Regalado; Richard Regalado and his wife Alexandra; Melissa Lathus and her husband Kody; and Elizabeth Morrissey and her husband Sean. She also leaves behind eight great-grandchildren.

Tayde is also survived by her former daughter-in-law Jane Regalado, her brother Lauro Martines, and many friends who were touched by her warmth and humor. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Ricardo Regalado; son-in-law Dennis Felton; and brothers Raoul Martinez, Carlos Martinez, and Hugo Martinez-Serros.

Known for her sharp sense of humor, Tayde delighted in playful banter with her children. Together they created whimsical stories that brought laughter into their lives—tales involving the Chicago Blackhawks, the Chicago Bulls, visits to Eli's Tavern for a Harvey Wallbanger, chats with Dr. Al Sac, stories about a fictitious girl gang named ZacaLadies, and hours spent gossiping with friends like Mr. Brown. Her ability to find joy in everyday moments endeared her to all who knew her.

Fiercely private about her own life, Tayde nonetheless took great pleasure in listening—to stories, worries, accomplishments, and dreams. She enjoyed thoughtful conversation and cared deeply about what mattered most in the lives of others.

Tayde had a love for figure skating and enjoyed watching Olympic ice-skating events or attending the Ice Capades. She also treasured outings to the movies with her granddaughter Elizabeth. Her kindness extended beyond family as she dedicated herself to supporting bilingual students in their education.

Tayde’s legacy is one of love, laughter, resilience, and service to others. Her memory will forever be cherished by those whose lives she touched.

May Tayde’s memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her. A Visitation will be held on April 30, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 01:00 PM at Care Cremation Center 33 E Montrose Dr. Romeoville, IL. Burial will follow at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery 20953 W. Hoff Road, Elwood, IL.

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