MARY GRACE SWARTZ, 85, originally from Mesquite, New Mexico passed away at her home in Las Cruces, New Mexico on April 25, 2026. She was born in Anthony, New Mexico to Roberto G. Téllez and S. Ofelia Dávila on August 3, 1940.

In 1963, Mary graduated from NMSU with a degree in education, got married, then moved to Albuquerque where she continued to live until 2020 after which she moved to Las Cruces.  She worked as a bilingual education teacher for over 30 years for Albuquerque Public Schools with most of her tenure being spent at East San Jose Elementary School.  Mary was well loved by family, friends, coworkers, students, and the nursing staff where she spent her last six years.  She loved to read, do crossword puzzles, write limericks about family members, listen to jazz and mariachi music, and sit outside in the evening to stargaze.

Mary is survived by her three remaining children, Dr. Cecilia M. Téllez, Paul G. Téllez, and Anna T. Swartz; her granddaughter, Mariana Téllez Hernandez; her siblings, Abel Téllez (Emma), Roberta Ferran (Gilbert), Martha Olivas, and Esteban Téllez; her brother-in-law, E. James Swartz; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by husband, Louis M. Swartz in 2023 and son, Michael L. Swartz in 2024.

The family kindly requests that those attending Mary's services dress in blue to honor her.

Visitation for Mrs. Swartz will begin at 6 PM Thursday, May 14, 2026, at Baca's Funeral Chapel, 300 E. Boutz Road with the Recitation of the Holy Rosary at 7 PM.  The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 AM Friday, May 15, 2026, at The Cathedral of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, 1240 S. Espina Street with the Reverend George Szal, Celebrant. The Rite of Committal and Internment will follow at Masonic Cemetery, 760 S. Compress Road where she will be laid to rest in the family plot.

Service arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Baca's Funeral Chapels of Las Cruces, 527-2222. Your exclusive provider for "Veterans and Family Memorial Care." For online condolences logon to www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com