Rachel Gonzales

On July 21, 2023, Rachel A. Gonzales, 94, passed away peacefully

at her home in Artesia NM with her most treasured blessing- her

family-lovingly by her side.

Rachel was born on April 4, 1929 in Artesia NM. In 1948, she married Emilio Gonzales (1927-2011) who had just returned from the Army. Rachel and Emilio made their home in Artesia NM to raise their family.

Rachel left an incredible legacy for her son Emilio Jr. and his wife Susanne Gonzales, her daughters and son-in-laws: Lina & John Smith, Nancy Jimenez, Rosemary and Manny Barrera, Debbie and David Juarez, Cathy and Jim Moor and Christina Gonzales as well as her 33 Grandchildren, 36 Great-grand children and 8 Great-Great Grandchildren.

Her life always has inspired us to live for Christ and our hope is that her legacy will also inspire you to do the same.

She always had gratitude in her heart for each task done for her right up until her last day on earth! She did not cultivate a grateful spirit in her nineties! That was something that she allowed to grow in her heart many, many years ago. It isn't something that just happens. It is deliberate. It showed the character and unconditional love that she had allowed the Holy Spirit to cultivate in her heart. It was one of the many ways that she demonstrated a quiet reflection of Jesus living through her life.

Rachel had a beautiful smile even when her life had bumps along the way. We have so much to learn from her about smiling even when you don't feel like it. A smile is a gift you give to someone and she always gave it freely! She had incredible faith in God. Our mother laid a foundation that prepared her for each day but also inspired those around her to live by her

favorite scripture: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" Romans 8:28.

She walked with the Lord each step of the way and blessed those she met with her cheerful spirit. Rachel maintained close friendships with people from all phases of her life, and she was known for being a generous and loving friend to so many, always offering kindness and compassion to those in her wide circle of friends. (And- always insisted on feeding those who came to her home!!).

Her family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the team of caregivers who worked with Rachel these past few months. Their kindness and dedication to her well being allowed her to enjoy the last days of her life in the comfort and familiarity of her home. In addition, we would like to thank the Hospice team from Enhabit, who provided compassionate support day and night to Rachel and her family.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate plants or offerings to Faith Baptist Church in her name.

A memorial service honoring Rachel will be held on August 5, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Faith Baptist Church in Artesia NM.