Mariana (Negra) Gallegos entered eternal rest on Monday, October 2, 2023, in Las Cruces, NM.

Mariana was born July 27, 1942, in Mesilla, NM. Mariana, or Negra to her family and friends, had a style about her. She was strong, determined and had one of the biggest smiles. Her surprising sense of humor kept those who truly knew her on their toes. She loved music, dancing and was a member of the Coro de Los Pastores. Mariana encouraged her sons and grandkids to experience the world through community, arts, sports, and her sense of adventure. She was an independent woman, who made sure her car always had gas, was serviced regularly, so she could get up and go. She held her profession as a Customer Representative at El Paso Electric Company, and if you ever sat in her office, you would admire her jungle of vine plants she kept for many years. Negra was a Mesillera through and through, deeply rooted in love for her family. She enjoyed walking the Mesilla acequias and cruising the streets on her tandem bike with her boys and later her granddaughter and great nephews. She was spiritually connected to la Virgencita Morenita and dreamed of one day receiving an aspirational visit from Madrecita herself. We are sure she was greeted by Our Lady of Guadalupe, her ancestors, and the choir of angels upon her arrival to eternal life.

She is survived by her sons Matthew Lara and Mark (Nora) Lara, grandchildren Anita Lara (Wes)and Jacob Lara, great grandson Rio Lara Beckler, Twin Sister Natalia (Ignacio) Bustamante and brother Paul (Bertha) Gallegos along with many Nieces and Nephews. All who love Negra dearly.

She is preceded in death by her parents Donaciano (Chano) Valles Gallegos, Dolores (Lola) Gil Gallegos and sister Teresa Quintana.

A visitation for Negra will begin at 12:30 pm on Wednesday, October 18, 2023, at the Basilica of San Albino, 2200 Calle Principal. A Prayer Vigil will start at 1pm with a Funeral Mass to follow. Negra will be laid to rest in San Albino Cemetery.

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