Mary Alice Romero

Mary Alice Romero, 80, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 13, 2010, surrounded by her family. She was born in Llano Quemado, New Mexico, on August 7, 1930 to Flavio Gonzales and Refugio Romero Gonzales, who preceded her in death. Mary Alice was preceded in death by her husband Refugio L. Torrez on July 1, 1990, whom she married on February 5, 1948. They were married for 42 years and blessed with five children who survive her with their spouses: Michael A. Torrez (wife Sylvia), from Taos, Christine Mueller (husband Herman) of Santa Fe, Diana Torrez (husband Eloy Montoya), Loretta Benita Montoya (husband George) of Albuquerque and Christella Lou Quinlan (husband Richard) of Austin, Texas. She is also survived by her seven grandchildren, Simon Torrez (wife Lisa) of Taos, Celso Torrez (wife Denise), Santana Torrez, of Albuquerque, Jason Mueller of Santa Fe, Gaelan and Selina Montoya, of Albuquerque, Sean Quinlan, of Austin, Texas, and two great grandchildren, Simon and Sheyenne Torrez, of Taos. Also, survived by her sisters Flora Garcia of Taos, Frances Trujillo (husband Alfonso) of Albuquerque, and her dear friend Aurora Montoya, who Mary Alice thought of as a sister. She raised her family in Taos surrounded by friends and family which she loved dearly. She was an excellent seamstress, cook and baker and enjoyed her life in Taos. She found happiness a second time and on October 21, 1995, married Tomas E. Romero who preceded her in death on January 19, 2006. They were happily married for 10 years. She lived in Alamosa, Colorado for 12 years where she was big part of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church community, and a member of The Catholic Daughters. They embraced her as their own even after the passing of her husband. During the past 2 years she lived in Albuquerque with her daughter Benita and George Montoya. Due to illness, she was a resident of the Albuquerque Heights Nursing and Rehabilitation Center where she received excellent care and comfort until her passing. She made many friends with staff and residents of the Center who will miss her dearly. Special Thanks to the nursing home staff especially the staff of the 400 Unit who made her last 18 months as enjoyable and dignified as possible. And, an extra special thank you to RN Ramney, CNA's Elizabeth and Darla, the therapy staffers Michelle and Tony, Father Ralph, Hair dresser Patsy Garcia, Martin the all around Handy Man, and all the activities staff who embraced Ms. Alice. Mary Alice was a member of the Catholic Church. Rosary was recited on October 18, 2010. Funeral mass was held on October 19, 2010. Both servcies were held at the St. Francis Catholic Church in Ranchos de Taos. Interment was held at the Santa Fe National Cemetery.