Mary E. Melendrez, 90, of Las Cruces, New Mexico, passed away on August 19, 2026, at Mesilla Valley Hospice in Las Cruces.

She was born on December 23, 1935, in northern California to Manuel Diaz and Angelita Apodaca, Mary was a loving and dedicated mother, grandmother, great‑grandmother, and great‑great‑grandmother. A devoted member of the Roman Catholic Church, she loved attending fiestas and listening to live music. Mary took great joy in canning her fresh green chile every year and cooking from scratch for her family. She was known for her homemade tortillas, fruitcakes, and other holiday treats, and she proudly taught her daughter, granddaughter, and great‑granddaughters how to bake her special biscochos.

Mary is survived by her children, Jose Melendrez, Jr.; Minerva Melendrez‑Castillo (Eloy); and Raymundo Melendrez (Dorian). Her grandchildren include Jessica Martinez (Andy), Raymundo Melendrez, Jr., Joe Melendrez, James Melendrez, and Kimberly Melendrez. She is also survived by great‑grandchildren Arianna Conde (Josh), Elisianna Conde, Ely Lascano (Josie), and many others.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Jose I. Melendrez; her son, Gilbert Melendrez; and her grandson, Ray J. Martinez.

A private inurnment will take place at a later date. The family extends heartfelt thanks to Mesilla Valley Hospice for their tender care of their mother in her final days.

Service arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Baca’s Funeral Chapel and Sunset Crematory, 300 E. Boutz Road, 575-527-2222. Your exclusive provider for “Veterans and Family Memorial Care.” For online condolences log on to www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com