Ruby Marie Villegas

It is with heavy hearts and great sorrow that we announce the passing of our loved one, Ruby Villegas, 39, of Hatch, New Mexico. Ruby passed on Sunday, March 29, 2015 surrounded by her loving family at home. Ruby was born on, September 20, 1975 to Marty and Martha Villegas in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Ruby grew up alongside her brothers and sister in Hatch, New Mexico. Ruby was a graduate of Hatch Valley High school and attended Western New Mexico University. At the time of her death, Ruby was a long-time employee of Ashley Furniture Homestore as an Operations Manager. Ruby was a loving mother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend to all who were lucky enough to know her. Her good spirit and humorous wit drew people in, making her the kind of person one could call a true and special person. Ruby had a way of creating a very unique bond with each of her nieces and nephews. Ruby loved nature and enjoyed camping and being outdoors with her family. Ruby's infectious giggle always filled a room. She loved her dogs immensely and adored spending time with them. Ruby was a devoted San Francisco 49ers fan and hardly ever missed a game. When diagnosed with breast cancer, Ruby was determined to fight it with everything she had. Through countless treatments, she continued the battle for her daughter and the numerous supporters lined up behind her. Her alluring personality was never suppressed during the tougher times. At no time did her radiant and comforting smile or infectious laugh diminish. She was truly an extraordinary person known for her ingenious charisma. Ruby's presence will forever remain in her loved one's hearts and will be remembered as the whole hearted person everyone knew her to be. She was a hard worker and had a courageous spirit who never let any obstacles interfere with her joy for life and family. She lived for her daughter, Emery, who was the light of her life. Even in the most difficult times, the strength Ruby displayed was indescribable. Her positive outlook and perseverance inspired everyone around her. She is survived by her daughter, Emery Villegas; mother, Martha Villegas both of the family home; brother Joseph Villegas and wife BreeAna of Las Cruces; and Sister Vanessa Villegas and husband Brian Fresquez of Las Cruces. Ruby is also survived by her nieces/nephews: Ian, Mia, Kai, Brianna, Serena and Tony. She was preceded in death by her brother Christopher Villegas, father Marty Villegas, paternal grandparents Guillermo and Estela Arellano Villegas and maternal grandfather Demetrio Esparza. The honor of pallbearers goes to Joseph Villegas, Ian Villegas, Brian Fresquez, Arthur (Tudy) Esparza, Billy Power and Richard Moyers. Honorary pallbearers are Tony Fresquez, Kai Villegas, David Trujillo and Willie Villegas. Ruby will forever live on in our hearts and we will cherish all of the wonderful memories we had with her. "Courage doesn't always roar. Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says I'll try again tomorrow."