Maria Rita Lopez

MARIA RITA LOPEZ

Born Thursday, May 14, 1925, Mom went to be with our Lord, Saturday August 12, 2023, at the age of 98; surrounded by loved ones. Mom was an amazing wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, Aunt and friend to so many.

Rita was preceded in death by her parents Manuel and Rumaldita Alire Velarde; her husband Gregorio Samoza Lopez; in-laws Francisco and Dolores Lopez; sons Greg, David, and Stephen Lopez; sisters Margaret Montoya and husband Herman, Josie Montoya and husband Rudy, Mary Montoya and husband Benny, Stella Lopez and husband Eustaquio; brothers Raymond Velarde and wife Adela, Joe Velarde and wife Lia and Manuel Velarde.

Rita is survived by her daughter Dolores Lopez, son Brother Mariano Lopez, F.S.C., daughter Julie Montaño and husband Paul, son Michael Lopez and wife Florence; her beloved grandchildren, Gregory Phelps, Steven Lopez, Shanell Montaño-De La Cruz and husband Joey, Mark Lopez, Connie Lopez and Sean Montaño; Great-Grandchildren Domanic, Gracelyn and Drake Phelps and Annalise De La Cruz; and her step-grandchildren Darren Phelps and Stephanie Phelps Lindmark.

She is also survived by sister-in-law Jessie Lopez; special nieces Jennie Baca and Barbara Velarde; several nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family.

Mom has a very special son-in-law, Paul Montaño. We thank him and acknowledge his years of love, dedication, help and service. Mom spoke of him endearingly with love and appreciation.

We would also like to thank the Beehive homes staff, the Ambercare staff, Palliative Care of Santa Fe and caregiver Lorraine Romero. We thank as well, Dr. Thron, Dr. Samora and Dr. Scott.

A devout Christian, Mom dedicated her life to God as an example to her children. The only thing that surpassed her love of family was her love for God!

Mom will be truly missed by all who knew her.

Pallbearers are Steven Lopez, Sean Montaño, Joey De La Cruz, Greg Phelps, Domanic Phelps and Rudy Montoya.

Honorary Pallbearers are Mark Lopez and Darren Phelps.

Services will be Friday, September 8, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at Berardinelli Funeral Home.

Internment at Santa Fe National Cemetery on same day at 12:30 p.m.

Reception will follow at 1:30 p.m. at Berardinelli/McGee Reception Hall.