Verna Maldonado, a bright spirit whose warmth touched many, passed away on February 20, 2025, in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Born on July 10, 1948, in Bradenton, Florida, to Geraldine Guthrie and Robert Shiver, Verna's journey was one of grace and quiet strength.

She spent her early years beneath the sunlit skies of Florida before moving to New Mexico, where she graduated from Albuquerque High School. Life later led her to Arizona, where she met Robert Maldonado. Together they shared a loving partnership that became the heart of their family.

Verna is lovingly remembered by her brother Snap (Lisa) of Phoenix, Arizona; her children Chance Thedford, Stoney Thedford, Christina Maldonado (Ruben), and Heather Maldonado (Patrick); and her seven cherished grandchildren. She now joins those who went before her—her beloved husband Robert Maldonado, her parents Geraldine and Robert, and her brother Paul Shiver.

Verna embraced life's simple joys with open arms. Her days were made brighter by time spent with her grandchildren and canine companions. NASCAR races brought an extra spark to her weekends, while audiobooks offered her hours of peaceful escape.

A memorial service celebrating Verna's life will be on May 7, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. held at Baca's Funeral Chapels & Sunset Crematory, 300 E Boutz Rd, Las Cruces, NM 88005,

May her memory bring comfort and light to all who knew and loved her.

Service arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Baca's Funeral Chapel 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