GEORGE CHAVEZ HERRERA, age,73, lifelong resident of Las Cruces, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, veteran, and master craftsman, passed away Tuesday, July 8, 2025, surrounded by family. He was born November 9, 1951. George proudly served in the United States Army as part of the esteemed 101st Airborne Division, demonstrating courage and commitment during his service in the Vietnam War. His strength and resilience in the face of adversity became hallmarks of the life he led beyond the battlefield. After his military service, George channeled his skill and dedication into a career as a self-employed carpenter. With hands that shaped wood and a heart that built community, he earned respect not only for his craftsmanship but for his warmth and integrity.

He leaves behind his devoted wife of 48 years, Dolores Herrera, with whom he built a life grounded in partnership, perseverance, and grace; two sons, Fernando Herrera, (Dana) of Las Cruces and George Herrera, Jr. (Zorahida) of El Paso, TX; two daughters, Michelle Herrera of Las Cruces and Rachel Herrera of California; a brother, Roger Herrera (Terri) also of Las Cruces; five sisters, Julia Diaz (Chuy), Pauletta Herrera all from Las Cruces; Rita Herrera of Texas; Vicki Ortega (Demetrio) of Indiana and Constance Angel of Socorro. Other survivors included numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Daniel T. and Connie B. Chavez Herrera; two sisters, Gloria Clouser and Stella Avalos; two brothers, Paul and Danny Herrera.

He will be remembered for his unwavering loyalty, gentle humor, and the quiet wisdom he carried through life's challenges. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew him, and in every beam and nail of the spaces he helped create. George's memory is honored with gratitude—for his service, for his love, and for example he set as a husband, father, grandfather, brother.

Visitation for Mr. Herrera will begin at 6 PM Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at Baca's Funeral Chapel, 300 E. Boutz Road with the Prayer Vigil at 7 PM. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 AM Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 1324 N. Miranda Street. At his request cremation will take place and Inurnment of cremains will be held at a later date. Military honor will be accorded by the New Mexico Army National Guard Honor Guard and the Marine Corps League - El Perro Diablo Detachment

Serving as casket bearers will be Andrew, Matthew, George, and Fernando Herrera, Johnny Clouser, and Jerry Romero.

The Herrera Family would like to extend a grateful Thank you to Dr. Jesus Gomez his Oncologist, and his nurse Ruthie, his VA Dr. Seline Jacobs and her nurse, Adriana; House call nurses, Susan Shoberg and Stephanie Ruiz, FNCP, Jamie Lujan, Pulmonologist, CNP and all the staff at High Desert Hospice.

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