Elena Gonzales Escobedo

Elena Gonzales Escobedo (August 4, 1922 - September 28, 2012) Elena Gonzales Escobedo quietly passed away in her sleep on Friday, September 28, 2012. Elena was born in Fresnillo, Zacatecas, Mexico on August 4, 1922. She came to Las Cruces with her mother Doña Juana, brother Eduardo (Lalo), and grandmother, Doña Alejandra. Elena graduated from the Loretto Academy and spent her formative years in Las Cruces. She returned to her home town later in life to care for her beloved mother Juanita. Elena enjoyed several pastimes. With a creative flair, Elena fashioned vibrant quilts. Their symmetric artistry captured a rainbow of colors. She also enjoyed cooking Mexican food. She used the Chile colorado peppers from the Mesilla Valley in her enchilada dishes. A love of flowers and plants provided her immense enjoyment. Her children would bring red roses for her birthday and special occasions. Elena drove a bright yellow bus for the Miami Public Schools for 30 years. Her gentle way of instructing students made her a mother figure. She looked forward to hearing about their success and challenges in school. She devoted time to visit the public library, and reading was an important part of her life. She encouraged her children to finish college. Elena was also very proud that her husband and sons served their country in the United States military. Elena is survived by her children Lorenzo (Maria), Alejandra (Chata), Ernesto (Maria), William, and John Edward. She is also survived by her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews, and close friends from New Mexico and Arizona. She is preceded in death by her husband Ernesto S. Escobedo, mother Juana Gonzales, and brother Eduardo Gonzales. A visitation will be held at 9:00 A.M. Saturday, October 6, 2012 at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Miami, AZ, Rosary at 9:30 A.M. The funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 A.M.