Berta Alicia Hernandez-Covey

Berta Alicia Hernandez-Covey, 74, passed peacefully into eternal life on April 11, 2026 surrounded by her loving and devoted family.

Born on February 5, 1952, in the rural heart of Las Cruces, New Mexico, to Victoriano and Liduvina Maldonado Hernandez, Berta was the youngest of nine siblings. Her formative years were marked by personal hardships that only strengthened her resolve, fortitude, and an unwavering commitment to serve others.

A proud graduate of Mayfield High School in 1972, Berta pursued higher education with determination, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Social Welfare from New Mexico State University in 1976. She went on to earn a master's degree, an MA in Counseling from the University of New Mexico in 1978. Furthering her academic pursuit, she earned a Master of Social Work (MSW), from New Mexico State University in 1991, deepening her expertise.

Her passion for uplifting others was demonstrated early, as she began her counseling career at a place she once received care herself, Carrie Tingley Hospital. Then moving on to Southwest Counseling Center, Tresco Inc, and Womack Army Community Hospital in North Carolina. Berta continued her passion for uplifting others at Mesilla Valley Psychiatric Hospital where she rose from a Children’s program therapist (1991) to the Director of the Children’s Program (1999). Later, she served as an elementary school counselor, supporting children and mentoring social work interns from NMSU. Even after retiring from Las Cruces Public Schools, she remained dedicated to counseling and mentoring within the community through St Luke’s Health Care Clinic, La Casa, and the Mesilla Valley Community of Hope. Throughout her career, she formed enduring friendships and professional bonds.

A beloved figure in the community, Berta was often recognized by individuals of all ages, many of whom would approach her with gratitude, saying, “I recognize you; you helped me when I was at my lowest,” to which she would always respond with a warm smile and genuine interest in their well-being.

Throughout her life, Berta was a beacon of hope and compassion, guiding everyone from young children navigating their emotions to troubled youth on the brink of the justice system, and veterans battling PTSD. She embraced this mission as her true “purpose”, helping others discover their inner strength until her very last days.

Though her loss leaves a profound void, Berta’s spirit endures in the countless lives she touched. She taught us to lead with kindness, to check-in on our neighbor, to make silly jokes and laugh wholeheartedly, to listen carefully, and to love unconditionally. Berta will always be remembered for how much she cared for others and her resilience in the face of adversity.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Raul, Jose, Manuel, Juan, and “Big-Brother” Victor; sisters Olga and Emma; brothers-in-law Lucio Sr. and Alton Sr.; sisters-in-law Mary and Kay. She is survived by her husband of 42 years, Roy Lee Covey; daughter “Lily” LeeAnna Alicia; lifelong friend Paty; sister Rose Marie (Mike) Contreras; sisters-in-law Priscilla, Linda, and Frances Hernandez; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Berta cherished the company of friends and family. All who knew her are invited to celebrate her remarkable life and enduring love by wearing her favorite color -purple.

Visitation will be held on Monday, April 27th at Getz Funeral Home beginning at 6:00pm, followed by a Rosary at 7:00pm. Funeral mass will be celebrated at Basilica of San Albino in Mesilla on Tuesday, April 28th, at 10:00am with interment at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens to follow.

Flowers may be sent directly to Getz Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests donations in Berta’s memory be made to local causes dear to her heart, such as the Animal Protection Association of Las Cruces, local libraries, or La Casa Inc.

Berta Alicia Hernandez-Covey leaves behind a legacy of compassion, strength, and love that will forever illuminate the paths of all who had the honor of knowing her.