Longtime San Luis Valley resident Cordy Garcia, 92, was called home on Feb. 26, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was born to Jose and Crescencia Manzanares on Jan. 3, 1933, in Bayfield, Colo.  

Juanita Celsa Rael, beloved mother and grandmother took her final breath on Feb. 24, 2025, with her cherished family by her side. 

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Theresa Sanchez, a beloved mother, sister, and friend, who left this world peacefully on Feb. 22, 2025, at the age of 82. Born on June 26, 1942, Theresa was a dedicated member of the Monte Vista, Colo., community and a longtime active member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Monte Vista. 

Virginia Joy Coombs passed away peacefully on Feb. 20, 2025, at the River Valley Inn Rehabilitation and Health Care Center in Del Norte, Colo., at the age of 94. Born on June 2, 1930, in Tacoma, Wash., Virginia's life was a testament to the power of warmth and generosity that she extended to everyone she met.  She met and married a young soldier there in Tacoma, who brough the city girl to a new life on a farm in Colorado. 

Life is a beautiful journey filled with memories, and some people leave a mark that lasts forever. Jaime Tomas Alanis Gonzalez, a cherished resident of Capulin, Colo., was one of those remarkable individuals whose life touched many hearts. His passing on Feb. 14, 2025, in Durango, Mexico, marks the end of a chapter filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished moments. He was born on March 7,1954, to Alfonso Alanis Díaz and Beatriz Gurrola Alanis in Durango, Mexico. 

Mary Frances Gutierrez, beloved wife, mother, sister, and grandmother, passed away on February 11, 2025, at the age of 87. Born on Nov. 17, 1937, in a farmer's home between Sargent and Center, Colo., Mary was full of life and spirit from an early age. She attended Sargent School and began working at a young age to support her family, showcasing her unwavering work ethic and determination. 

Elsie Eleanor Padilla, a beacon of love and creativity, was called home to the Lord on Feb. 17, 2025, at the age of 82. Born on Oct. 12, 1942, in the serene town of Cerro, N.M., she was a daughter of the South, whose heart beat in time with the rhythms of the mountains and the melodies of Spanish music. 

Jo Anne Mitchell Eberhart was born in Denver, Colo., to John Clifford Sr. and Jeanne (Burroughs) Mitchell. Jo Anne was raised in little mining towns across Colorado. Creede, Ouray, Leadville and …

Frances Marie Draves, 76, passed away peacefully at home on February 12th, 2025. In her final moments she was surrounded by her family after a long and hard-fought battle against cancer.

Longtime Bayfield resident, Gary James Pope, died Jan. 31, 2025, at Penrose Hospital in Colorado Springs, Colo. He was 78 years old. 

Anna Reid Pubins, born on April 21, 2024, brought immeasurable joy and love to all who knew her before she was called home on February 12, 2025, after a brief illness. Though her time on this earth was brief, Anna’s life was filled with warmth, laughter, and a radiant light that will forever shine in the hearts of her family. 

Alex Juan Martinez, a man known for his loving heart and unwavering passion for life, departed this world on Feb. 16, 2025, in Center, Colo., with his loving family by his side. Leaving a legacy of warmth and wisdom. Born on Sept. 26, 1945, in Pueblo, Colo., Alex's life was a testament to his intelligent mind and his dedication to his faith and family. 

Bobby Ray Cooley, 73, passed away Feb. 3, 2025, at his home in Mosca, Colo. Bobby was born on Sept. 7, 1951. He was the second child to Bill and Alice Cooley. Bobby attended Sangre De Cristo School where he met his wife, Rita Cooley. 

Deidre Fantazia Nyquist-Mascareñas, a beautiful soul who will always be cherished for her endless love and generosity, completed her earthly journey on Feb. 13, 2025. Born in Alamosa, Colo., on Feb. 20, 1998, Deidre entered this world the same way she lived in it. How and when she wanted. Deirdre’s due date was Valentine’s Day, but she does what she wants and was born 6 days later.  

JAROSO, COLO. – Anthony John Montoya, lovingly known as “Juan Antonio,” passed away peacefully on Jan. 4, 2025, in Rio Rancho, N.M., at the age of 71. Born on May 21, 1953, in Jaroso, Colo., Anthony lived a life defined by devotion to his family, service to his country, and unwavering kindness to all. 

Charlotte June Sheely slipped the surly bonds of earth and touched the face of God on Feb. 12, 2025. 

At 1:53 a.m., Feb. 7, 2025, our amazing mother Cheri Lee Younkerman took her last breath and went to be with our Heavenly Father for eternity. After battling CHF for years and going through cancer, …

Delfino Anthony Armenta, 58, was born in Alamosa, Colo., on Aug. 6, 1966.  He was born to Delfino E. Armenta and Mary Evelyn Tapia.  

Ernest J. Martinez, or “Ernie” as most knew him, was born March 28, 1948 in Alamosa, Colorado and died on February 4, 2025.  He was proceeded in death by his parents, Mike and Rebecca Martinez and his siblings, Eileen Gallegos and Tino.   

Timothy Phil Garcia, a cherished son, brother, uncle, and talented tradesman, passed away peacefully on Feb. 2, 2025, at the age of 54. Born on Feb. 11, 1970, in Del Norte, Colo., Timothy was deeply loved and proud to be a part of his close-knit family, the son of Feliberto and Sedelia Garcia.