RITA CANO MONTOYA, age 72, of Tortugas passed away Friday, July 7, 2023, at Mountain View Regional Medical Center surrounded by her loving family. She was born April 12, 1951, in Sierra Blanca, Texas to Juanita Ramirez and David Cano. Mrs. Montoya was employed at New Mexico State University prior to her retirement and was a member of the Catholic Church.

In 1971 she married the love of her life Margarito Montoya and together they raised 2 daughters, Michele Montoya and Margie Gleason and husband, Jason all of Las Cruces; and her loving grandson, Jameson Gleason.  She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Jesus Cano.

At her request cremation has taken place and a Prayer Vigil is scheduled at 2:30 PM Friday, July 28, 2023, at the Shrine and Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe, 3600 Parroquia Street in Tortugas where the Memorial Mass will be celebrated immediately thereafter with the Reverend Valentine Jankowski Celebrant. Inurnment of cremains will be held at a later date.

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