CECILIA MAESE PADILLA, a beloved matriarch and lifelong resident of Las Cruces, entered eternal life Friday, November 21, 2025, at the age of 101. She passed peacefully at La Posada Mesilla Valley Hospice, surrounded by the love and presence of her devoted family.

Born February 1, 1924, to Tomasa Rede and Jesus Felipe Maese, Cecilia lived a life rooted in faith, family, and service. She dedicated many years to the Las Cruces Public Schools as a cafeteria worker, where her warm smile and kind heart nourished generations of students. A devout member of the Roman Catholic Church, she dedicated much of her life to her faith and parish community. As a devoted catechism teacher, she guided countless children and families in their spiritual journey. She was a proud and active member of the Altar Society, offering her time and talents in service. Her love of music shone through as a cherished choir member, lifting hearts with song. She was also deeply committed to the Holy Retreats (Cursillos), where her involvement touched many lives and strengthened the faith of those around her.  Cecilia's life was a testament to humility, compassion, and unwavering devotion.

Cecilia's legacy lives on through her eight loving children: sons Sonny Padilla, Eddie Padilla (Dorean), Jerry Padilla (Fran), and Jesse Padilla (Cecilia); and daughters Mary Lou Ortiz (Carlos), Angie Guerra (Mitch), Terry Duran, and Kathy Soto-Timms (Ron), all from Las Cruces. She is also survived by her brother-in-law, Ernesto Padilla (Corine); 15 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews who cherished her deeply.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Edward Padilla (2007); her grandson, Michael Duran; sons-in-law Ricky Soto and Mark Mall; daughter-in-law Janice Padilla; and all of her siblings.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, beginning at 6:00 PM at Baca's Funeral Chapel, 300 E. Boutz Road, followed by a Prayer Vigil at 7:00 PM. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:30 AM Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at The Basilica de San Albino, 2070 Calle de Santiago in Mesilla. The Rite of Committal and Interment will follow at San Albino Cemetery, where Cecilia will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband in the family plot.

Serving as casket bearers are Richard Ortiz, Demi Guerra, Kyle Mall, Eddie Soto, Chris Padilla, Phillip Padilla, and Jared Padilla.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff, doctors, and nurses at La Posada Mesilla Valley Hospice for the exceptional care and love shown to Cecilia in her final days.

Cecilia's life was a blessing, her memory a treasure. She was deeply loved and will be forever missed.

Service arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Baca's Funeral Chapels of Las Cruces, 300 E. Boutz Road, 527-2222. Your exclusive provider for "Veterans and Family Memorial Care." For online condolences logon to www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com