It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and dear friend, MARIA ANITA ASTORGA BACA, lifelong resident of Las Cruces on Wednesday, October 18, 2023, at the age of 70. "Mary" as she was fondly known to family and friends was born July 24, 1953, to Julia Telles and Cesario Astorga. She was employed as a cashier before her retirement and was a member of the Heart for the World.

Those left to mourn her passing include her loving daughters, Cynthia Crotts (husband, Larry) and Juanita McPherson (husband, Jonathan) all of Las Cruces; her brother, Elfego Astorga (wife, Abby) and half-brother, Martin Astorga; nine grandchildren, Jasmine, Vanessa, Izaiah, Ezra, Nevaeh, Kiana, Larry Wayne, Jonathan, and Eliana; two great-grandchildren, Zion, and Izaiah Jr., as well as numerous nieces and nephews.  Mary also had half-siblings, that she loved very much. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Juan Baca; her companion of many years, Julian Pena; sister, Juana Roman; five brothers, Mauro, Danny, Gilbert, Ramon, and Jimmy Astorga; and a half-sister, Peggy Astorga; as well as other family members.

Visitation for Mary will begin at 10 AM, Monday, October 30, 2023, at Baca's Funeral Chapel, 300 E. Boutz Road with the Funeral Service at 11 AM with Pastor Dale Walker officiating. Concluding Service and Interment will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, 100 N. Espina Street.

Serving as casket bearers will be Mary's, sons-in-law, and her grandsons.

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