Beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt, Esther Hernandez Maldonado, 59, originally of La Union, NM, entered eternal life on August 27, 2025. She passed away peacefully at Mesilla Valley Hospice surrounded by those who loved her.

Esther was born in Canutillo, Texas, to Julian and Virginia Hernandez. She enjoyed singing to mariachi and ranchera music. Esther was an avid softball player in many community leagues as a teen and adult. She worked as an administrative assistant at Desert View Elementary in the Gadsden Independent School District, where she retired after 32 years of service.

Esther is survived by her husband, Javier Maldonado; her daughters, Guadalupe Vinas (Wilmer) and Kirby Hernandez. She leaves behind one sister, Violet Henderson (Donald), and two brothers, Marcos Hernandez (Brenda), Julian Hernandez, Jr. (Monica). Other survivors include her grandchildren, Jazlyn and José Damian Muñoz; niece, Aubrianna Hernandez; nephews, Levi Henderson, Dominic Hernandez, Julian Ignacio Hernandez, and Lucas Hernandez; uncle, Tomas Hernandez Jr.; and numerous cousins and friends.

Though she may be gone from our sight, Esther will forever remain in our hearts. Rest in peace, dear Esther. You are deeply missed and eternally loved.

Visitation will take place on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, starting at 6pm at Our Lady of Refuge Catholic Church, 1320 Mercantil Ave, Anthony, NM., with a Rosary to follow at 7pm. A Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at 10am at Our Lady of Refuge Catholic Church, with the graveside service to follow at the La Union Cemetery.

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