MARIA "CHANA" ROYBAL FRAGOSO, age 94, of Las Cruces, NM and formerly of La Mesa, NM, entered eternal life on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at her home, surrounded by her loving family. Known affectionately as "Chana" to all who knew her. She was a gentle, devoted, and faith-filled woman whose kindness and quiet strength touched countless lives.

Born in Las Cruces, NM on September 20, 1931, to Isidra Trujillo Roybal and Vicente Roybal. Chana dedicated her life to service; both to her family and her community. She retired from the Gadsden Independent School District after many years as a loyal cafeteria worker, where her warmth and care nourished more than just appetites.

Chana's commitment to her faith was unwavering. She was a life member and past President of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary Post 4384, served on the Parish Council of San Jose Catholic Church, and was honored to be named President of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. As a longtime Catechism teacher, she helped shape the spiritual lives of many young parishioners. Her presence was a staple at the Church Fiestas, where her legendary gorditas became a cherished tradition throughout the Valley.

She is survived by her children: Edward Fragoso of Las Cruces, Gloria Lopez of El Paso, TX, Alfredo Fragoso and wife Teresa of Las Cruces, and Margaret Fragoso of Las Cruces. Her legacy continues through her six grandchildren- Andrea Lopez, Gilbert Lopez, Ashley Moziejko, Alyssa Regalado, Stevie Garcia, Rhonda Clark, and her great-grandson Michael Ray Lopez. She also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and godchildren who will carry her memory forward.

Chana was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Raul D. Fragoso (1991); her parents Isidra and Vicente Roybal; her four brothers- Felipe, Johnny, Paul, and Vicente Jr. Roybal; her daughter-in-law, Mary C. Fragoso; and her son-in-law, Gilbert "Duro" Lopez.

Visitation will begin at 6 PM on Friday, October 10, 2025, at San Jose Catholic Church, 353 Josephine Street in La Mesa, NM, followed by a Prayer Vigil at 7 PM. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 AM on Saturday, October 11, 2025, with Reverend Alejandro Reyes, Celebrant. Chana will be laid to rest alongside her husband at San Jose Cemetery.

Serving as casket bearers will include Gilbert Ray Lopez, Michael Ray Lopez, Gilbert Fragoso, Tury Fragoso, Yusef Sutton, and Celestino Caballero.

The Fragoso family extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Azhar Zahir and staff, Dr. Bhatnagar and staff, Sierra Home Health and Hospice, Reverend Alejandro Reyes for his comforting words, Jeannie Gomez for her years of companionship, all relatives, friends, and the staff at Baca's Funeral Chapel for their compassion and support.

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 log-on to www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com