Mary Avila

Mary Avila, 92, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2026, in Lakewood, Colorado.

Born on June 23, 1933, in Golondrinas, New Mexico, Mary lived a life defined by hard work, deep devotion to family, and a generous spirit. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and the cherished matriarch of her family.

Mary raised her children singlehandedly, meeting life’s challenges with remarkable strength, determination, and grace. Through her example, she taught her family the values of perseverance, love, and selflessness. Her home was filled with warmth, wisdom, and the comforting knowledge that family always came first.

A talented cook, gardener, and seamstress, Mary found joy in creating things with her hands and sharing her gifts with those she loved. Whether preparing green chile and beans with fresh tortillas, tending to her garden, sewing something special for a loved one, or using her knowledge of plants to keep her hair its signature shade of brown, which remained true right up to the very end, she poured her heart into everything she did. She was also a devoted fan of country western music and traditional Mexican songs with spirited gritos. Their familiar melodies brought her comfort, happiness, and a deep connection to the Spanish she spoke and the ranching life she was raised in throughout her life.

Mary took great pride in teaching her grandchildren everything she knew. From practical skills like making capulin jam to life lessons like when to be unapologetically honest and genuine, she shared her knowledge freely and lovingly, helping shape generations of her family. Her influence can be seen in the values, traditions, and memories she leaves behind.

Mary also found comfort and purpose in her faith. She enjoyed studying the Bible with the Jehovah’s Witnesses and appreciated the hope and encouragement she found in Scripture. Her faith helped guide her throughout her life and provided strength during both joyful and difficult times.

She is survived by her children, Jim Cruz (Trish), Steve Cruz (Tracy), Willie Avila, and Blanca Armenta (Alex). She was preceded in death by her sons Tom Cruz, John Cruz, and Andy Cruz.

Mary’s legacy lives on through her fourteen grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren, as well as numerous extended family members and friends whose lives were enriched by her love and guidance.

Though her family mourns her passing, they find comfort in the countless memories she created and the enduring example she set. Mary will be remembered as a strong, loving, and resilient woman whose greatest accomplishment was the family she nurtured and the love she shared.

She will be deeply missed and forever held in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Her family finds comfort in God’s promise:

“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint.” - Isaiah 40:31