Stella L. Melendrez

Stella Melendrez, 80, passed away peacefully from this world on Monday, May 21, surrounded by her children and grandchildren. Born May 3, 1932, in Albuquerque, NM to Joe and Elisa Nevarez Melendrez, Stella lived a dynamic and amazing life. All who know her were blessed by her wonderful sense of humor, compassionate heart and devout Catholic Faith. She was an avid artist, actress, activist who was involved in local politics, preservation of history through her founding work in the local preservation group, "Las Esperanza" and she carried the rich history of the Melendrez family forward in her diligence in sharing the story of this founding family of Dona Ana County. Stella will be greatly missed by all who knew loved her, and were blessed by her incredible spirit. She is survived by her son Don LeCuyer and his wife Nema of Las Cruces; daughters Deborah Renee LeCuyer of Las Cruces and Pamela Ann Hogan and husband Robin of Silver City, NM; brothers Sonny Melendrez and wife Victoria of Port Costa, CA, Vincent Melendrez and wife Marion of Las Vegas, NV and Bill Melendrez and wife Goshia of Columbus, Ohio and sister Betty Melendrez of Las Cruces. She is also survived by her grandchildren Raven Roony, Joseph Hogan and Lila LeCuyer and great-grandchildren Phoenix and Kyuss Hogan and Keeley Rooney. A rosary followed by a memorial mass to celebrate her life will be held at 1:00 pm on May 31 at The Cathedral of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Burial will be at Masonic Cemetery followed by a reception and showing of Stella's art at the IHM social hall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mesilla Valley Hospice 299 E. Montana, Las Cruces, NM 88005 (575-523-4700). PDF Printable Version