MAURILIO CASTRO, affectionately known as "Maury" by friends and family, was born November 27, 1933, on Thanksgiving Day. He passed away on November 28, 2024, also on Thanksgiving Day. Maury was a devoted family man who cared deeply for his large family, sharing their triumphs, and supporting them with love and compassion.

Maurilio "Maury" Castro was born in Santa Rita, New Mexico, to parents Maria and Maurilio Castro. At the age of 16, he joined the Army by lying about his birthdate to meet the age requirement. He served with the Battery B716 AAA Gun Battalion at Fort Bliss, Texas, and was later assigned to Camp Shiloh in Manitoba, Canada, in 1950. He was honorably discharged in 1952.
After his military service, Maury worked in the copper mines of Santa Rita. He then utilized the GI Bill to pursue his education, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from Western New Mexico University. In 1973, he furthered his studies by obtaining a master's degree in Counseling and Guidance from New Mexico State University.

Maury enjoyed a successful career with the New Mexico Department of Education in Santa Fe, working in the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. Over the years, he advanced from being a Counselor to the Chief of Field Operations. This role ignited a lifelong passion for helping those in need and a commitment to improving the world for those in need. Maury has had a lasting impact on many people, especially youth.

After retiring, he devoted himself to community service in various ways, advocating for disabled and immigrant students. He was a champion on the Executive Committee of The Health Security Campaign, where he lobbied for health issues in Santa Fe. Maury was a member of LULAC Council 129, AARP, and Juntos en la Unión. He also participated in the Progressive Voter Alliance and was a member of the Federation of Democratic Women, advocating for civil rights, women's rights, and voter rights.
Maury ran for office and campaigned for candidates he believed in, enduring challenges such as dodging unleashed dogs, "no solicitor" signs, and navigating encounters with angry individuals—all while logging many miles on foot. These experiences did not deter him; instead, he formed many lifelong friendships along the way. Additionally, Maury served on the Las Cruces Public School Board, advocating for the benefit of all students.

Maury was loved and respected by many, but none more than by his family. His guiding words to us all were, "Love each other unconditionally, UNCONDITIONALLY!" Maury is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Mary "Dolly" Castro, and their five sons: Eddie Castro (Therese), Michael Castro, Steve Castro (Karla), Ray Castro (Jessica Rudolph), and John Patrick Castro (Lisa). He is also survived by four daughters: Iris Puentes (Arnold), Belinda Mori (Malcolm), Julie Woods (Nik), and Felicia Castro (Claude DeCarish). In addition, Maury leaves behind 18 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-granddaughter.

Maury was preceded in death by his first wife, Erlinda Rodriguez Castro; mother, Maria Aguirre; father, Maurilio Castro Sr; sisters, Juana Aldaz, and Cuca Reyes; and his grandson, Garrick Mori.

Maury made the world a better place for many, he will be missed terribly by his loving family.
At his request cremation has taken place and the Prayer Vigil will be held at 1:30 PM Thursday, December 19, 2024 at Our Lady of Purification Catholic Church, 5525 Cristo Rey in Doña Ana, with the Memorial Mass to follow immediately thereafter. Military honor will be accorded by the New Mexico Army National Guard Honor Guard and the Marine Corps League - El Perro Diablo Detachment.

Service arrangements have 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