It is with great sadness that the family of SIMONE ERIN APODACA, 43 of Las Cruces announce her sudden passing. Simone will be fondly remembered as a loving parent, cherished daughter, sister, niece and friend. She was born March 25, 1983, to Gilbert and Renee Apodaca in Albuquerque. Simone was a dedicated caregiver and member of the Catholic Church.

Simone will be remembered for her laughter, generosity, and love for life; she lived every day to the fullest. Memorialized through each aspect of nature, her garden, pet chickens, ducks "Savannah and Agnes", geese "Poppy and Olivia", and dogs "Sissy, Levi, Lucky and Bailey" leaves behind a reminder of her endless love. Her generosity extended through acts of kindness whether through cooking / baking and hosting/planning events.  Though she valued the livelihood of others, her passion for "live" music, especially country (Morgan Wallen) and traveling was gratified by the many trips she went on and the memories of those who were invited along. But most of all, she leaves behind her greatest love,   "her Emme Rae of Sunshine"

Simone is survived by her daughter Emme Apodaca of the family home, parents Gilbert and Renee Apodaca; one sister; Celeste Wheat (Jose Gallegos) of Albuquerque and brother, Bryan Apodaca (Jeann), their children, Aiden and Evelyn, of Bosque Farms.  Other survivors include a niece/sister Shaleen Gallegos (Dustin Levario) and their children, Andrea and Leland, and one nephew; Jose Gallegos (Gabby Chavez) and their children, Kane and Rome; her aunt/godmother Geri Wheat (Denise Garcia) all from Albuquerque are also left to mourn her passing as well as many other family members and many friends.

Visitation for Simone will take place on Monday April 27, 2026, from 9 AM – 10 AM at Baca's Funeral Chapels, 300 E. Boutz Road.  The Rosary will begin at 10:30 AM and the Funeral Mass at 11: AM at the Basilica de San Albino in Mesilla. At the family's request, cremation will take place.

Serving as casket bearers will be Bryan Apodaca, Celeste Wheat, Jose and "lil" Jose Gallegos, Brandon Rael and Tita Garcia.  Honorary bearers will be Emme Apodaca and Leland Gallegos.

"If I knew the last time that I held you was the last time, I would have never let go" (Emme)

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