MARIA ELENA FLORES ESCALANTE, age 46, lifelong resident of Las Cruces passed away on Sunday, November 17, 2024, surrounded by her family and friends. She was born April 16, 1978, to Lina Flores and Tomas Escalante. Maria lived her life the way she wanted, "No Regrets." She had a big heart, loved her kids, and grandkids very much. Maria was aways willing to lend a helping hand to anyone. She was not perfect, but she owned it, and did not mess with you if she did not like you. She enjoyed Low Riders, 80's oldies and getting together with family and friends. Maria was a #1 Raiders fan.

Those left to mourn her passing include 3 children: son, Emiliano J. Escalante-Urrutia; 2 daughters, Kansas I. Escalante, and Esperanza M. Escalante; 3 grandchildren, EJ, Zay, and Doll; other families that Maria considered her daughters, Ashley A. Flores, (spouse Bina) their son, Eziah and daughter, Angelina; other daughter, Angel V. Escalante (spouse Julie), and  daughter, Amaryllis Valenzuela; She leaves behind her sister, Lori Valles (Tony) all from Las Cruces. Her Godchildren, Adelina Valles, and Lonnie Flores; nephew, Armando T. Valles; niece, Lorenna M. Ybarra (spouse Joshua), their daughter, Nevaeh, and son, Joshua, Jr., as well as numerous cousins, aunts, and uncles.  Maria was preceded in death by her parents; 2 brothers, Richard, and Tomas "TJ" Escalante; grandparents, Carlotta, and Antonio Flores; Maria and Juan Escalante.

Visitation for Maria will begin at 10:30 AM Saturday, December 7, 2024, at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, 1240 S. Espina Street with the Prayer Vigil at 11 AM. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated immediately thereafter. The Rite of Committal and Interment will follow at Masonic Cemetery, 760 S. Compress Road where she will be laid to rest in the family plot.

At her request, Maria is asking everyone to please wear Raider Colors. (Black and Silver)

Serving as casket bearers will be Frank Flores, Bina Gutierrez, Joshua Ybarra Jr., Armando T. Valles, Rey Mendiola, and Andrew Flores.

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