MATILDE "TILLIE" / "TILE" NAVA NIETO, of Mesquite, NM, passed away peacefully in her home on April 1, 2025, at the age of 92. Born February 23, 1933, in Liberty (La Mesa), NM, Tillie lived a life marked by strength, love, generosity, hard work, and unwavering honesty.

Tillie married Socorro Nieto on April 1,1951 and together they had four children. She is survived by her daughters, Evangelina (Eduardo) and Lucy, and her sons, Arturo (Ann) and Marty (Precilla). She also leaves behind seven grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren, her brothers Joe, Roberto, Martin, and sisters Rose, Eliza, and Dina, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Tillie was a woman of deep curiosity and conversation. She was never one to shy away from sharing her truths, offering her perspective, shaped by her lived experiences and her steadfast dedication to those she cared about. Her home was the heart of many special moments, where family and friends gathered, sometimes intending to stay for just a short while, only to lose track of time, caught up in the love of her company. Around her table and or in one of her sitting rooms, connections were strengthened, memories were made, and Tillie's unwavering curiosity about the world and the people in it ensured that every visit felt like a moment worth savoring.

To know Tillie was to know the joy of her delicious food. Her famous homemade tortillas were always made with so much love.  She never made a batch without saving a little dough for her grandchildren to play with, turning a simple meal into cherished memories. Her tacos, red enchiladas, and empanadas could cure anything, and you never walked into her home without hearing the familiar question: "Are you hungry?" Whether you had just eaten or not, the answer hardly mattered, within moments, she would whip up something wonderful, and just when you thought you were full, she would insist you have more. Food was one of the ways Tillie made people feel loved and welcomed. Once she knew your favorite meal, she never forgot. It became something she made just for you, a quiet but profound gesture of care.

Tillie was a hardworking and dedicated member of her community. She spent many years as a postal service worker in Anthony, NM ensuring that letters, packages, and greetings made their way to families and neighbors. She brought the same dedication and care to her work that she did to her home, caring deeply for her children, extended family, and neighbors. Her commitment to serving others extended far beyond her job and home. She was a dedicated member of the United Methodist Church in Mesquite, NM, where she volunteered alongside cherished friends and fellow church members, working to help organize the annual enchilada supper for many years, a tradition that brought the community together and reflected her deep commitment to service. Whether lending a helping hand or simply being present for those in need, Tillie gave her time selflessly, embodying the values of compassion, service, and faith.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Socorro; her parents, Martin, and Juanita; her cherished Abuelita, Enedina Rodarte; her grandson, Patrick; and her siblings Amparo (Rina), Nancy, Edna, and Sara.

Tillie was passionate about supporting charitable causes, and in honor of her giving spirit, her family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to your favorite charity.

Cremation has taken place, and services will be held at a later date. Per Tillie's wishes, a small, private graveside service will be held with only immediate family in attendance.

Tillie's family extends its deepest gratitude to Mesilla Valley Hospice, her caregiver Judith Jimenez for their loving care and kindness and Baca's Funeral Chapels for their services.

Tillie's presence will be greatly missed, but her love, laughter, and legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed enough to know her.

Cremation has been entrusted to the care of Baca's Funeral Chapel of Las Cruces and Sunset Crematory, 300 E. Boutz Road, 527-2222. Your exclusive provider for "Veterans and Family Memorial Care." For online condolences logon to www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com