RAY L. MENDES, age 83, of Las Cruces entered eternal life on Tuesday, August 29, 2023, at his home. Ray as he was known to family and friends was born April 1, 1940, in Balmorhea, Texas to Tomasa Lujan and Belente Mendes. He served his country honorably in the United State Army and was discharged in 1965. He worked as a truck driver for many years and was a member of the American Legion Post 99 in Albuquerque and Roman Catholic Church.

Those left to mourn his passing include his nephew John Mendes and 5 sisters, Manuela Borunda, Carolina Mendes, Alicia Munoz, Orelia Tavarez and Amparo Galindo as well as other family members. He was preceded in death by his parents; 4 brothers, John, Paul, Inez, and Balente Jr., and a sister, Yolanda Mendes.

At his request cremation has taken place and the Prayer Vigil is scheduled for 9:30 AM Thursday, September 28, 2023, at St. Genevieve Catholic Church, 100 S. Espina Street. The Memorial Mass will be celebrated immediately thereafter. Inurnment of cremains will follow at the St. Genevieve Columbarium. Military Honors will be accorded by the United States Army Honor Guard and the Marines 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