It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and best friend, Maria Cristina Herrera, affectionately known to family and friends as “Chris.”

Chris entered into eternal rest at the age of 74, peacefully at her home while praying the Holy Rosary, surrounded by the love and presence of her family.

Born to Juan C. Medina and Carmen Medina of Chamberino, New Mexico, Chris lived a life rooted in faith, family, and service to others. She is survived by her devoted husband of 54 years, Arthur A. Herrera; her children, Debbie Herrera and Shawn Herrera, Sr.; her grandchildren, Salvador Ortega, Noah Ortega, Chantall Herrera-Plancarte, Chantay Herrera, Ashanti Herrera, and Shawn Herrera, Jr.; and her great-grandson, Zander Plancarte.

A proud graduate of Gadsden High School, Class of 1971, Chris pursued her passion for beauty and became a brilliant cosmetologist. She owned and operated her own beauty salon for more than 25 years, where she became known not only for her skill and creativity, but also for the kindness and friendship she shared with every client. Her famous makeovers were matched only by her equally famous homemade tortillas, chile rellenos, and tamales. Family and friends rarely left her home without a fresh haircut, a full belly, and a smile on their face.

Chris found great joy in spending time with her family. She loved camping, listening to oldies music, watching movies, reading James Patterson novels, and completing word-search puzzles. Her greatest happiness, however, came from caring for those she loved and creating lasting memories with them.

A devout Roman Catholic, Chris was a faithful parishioner of Basilica of San Albino, where her faith remained the guiding force throughout her life.

Family and friends are invited to join in celebrating Chris’s life on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at the Basilica of San Albino, 2070 Calle de Santiago, Mesilla, New Mexico. The Holy Rosary will be recited at 11:00 a.m., followed by the Christian Funeral Mass at 11:30 a.m. Inurnment will take place at 12:30 p.m. in the parish Columbarium.

Though our hearts are saddened by her passing, we take comfort in knowing that Chris has been welcomed into the loving embrace of our Lord. Her faith, generosity, warmth, and unwavering love for her family will remain in our hearts forever.

In lieu of flowers please donate to the Basilica of San Albino Food Pantry and or the Alzheimer’s Association at https://Alzheimer's Association /newmexico