With heavy hearts and profound love, we announce the passing of YOLANDA RIVERA LOPEZ, who entered eternal rest July 1, 2026, at the age of 75, surrounded by the love of her family.

Yolanda was the heart of her family, a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother, treasured great-grandmother, cherished aunt, faithful friend, and a source of strength to everyone who knew her. She lived a life rooted in compassion, quiet strength, selfless generosity, and unwavering faith.

Her greatest joy was caring for those around her, and her greatest legacy is the family she nurtured and the countless lives she touched with her kindness.

At the center of her life was an extraordinary love story with her husband, Albert Lopez, her best friend and devoted partner of more than 58 years. Together they built a life grounded in faith, love, and family, standing side by side through every season with steadfast commitment. Their marriage was a beautiful reflection of enduring love, mutual respect, and lifelong devotion.

Together they were blessed with three children who became the pride of Yolanda's life: Jenny Stokes and her husband, Doug Stokes; John Lopez and his wife, Brittany Topmiller; and Tony Lopez and his wife, Vanessa Trappe. She celebrated every milestone, encouraged every dream, and loved her children wholeheartedly. Whether preparing a favorite meal, celebrating family milestones, or simply spending time together, Yolanda made every gathering feel like home.

Being "Grandma" was one of Yolanda's greatest blessings. She leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Leslie Brilliant (Jorge Garza), Anthony Stokes (Angel Abalos), Breanna Alvarez (Alex Alvarez), Ryan Lopez (Destiny Jones), John Lopez, Laila Lopez, Nicole Lopez, and Zacila Lopez. She was also blessed with two precious great-grandchildren, Roman Lopez and Beau Alvarez, who brought her endless joy. She treasured every moment with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, delighting in watching them grow, celebrating their accomplishments, sharing stories, and creating lasting memories together. Her unconditional love, gentle guidance, and the family traditions she passed down will remain with them always.

Yolanda is also survived by her brothers and sisters: Gloria Rivera, Julie Lucero (Bennie Lucero), Vera Rivera, Albert Rivera (Liz Rivera), Candy Aguirre (Humberto Aguirre), and Lyz Rivera; her sister-in-law, Carrie Rivera; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins—far too many to name, yet each held close to her heart. She shared a lifelong bond with her family, strengthened by faith, laughter, and countless treasured memories.

Known affectionately as "Aunty Landa" to her many nieces and nephews, Yolanda had a special gift for making everyone feel like family. Her home was always open, her hugs were warm, and there was always room for one more at her table.

One of Yolanda's greatest expressions of love was, through her cooking. Her kitchen was the heart of her home, where family gathered, stories were shared, and memories were made. An exceptional cook, she was especially known for her homemade tortillas and her famous chile con carne—family favorites that brought everyone to the table. Every meal she prepared was made with care and served as a reminder that caring for others was simply part of who she was. The warmth of her kitchen, the aroma of her meals, and the love she poured into every dish will be remembered and cherished for generations.

A devoted member of Santa Rosa de Lima Church, Yolanda lived her faith with humility, compassion, grace, and a servant's heart. Her relationship with God shaped the way she loved, served, and cared for others, and she found strength and comfort within her church community.

Yolanda will be remembered for her warm smile, gentle spirit, generous heart, and comforting presence. She had a rare ability to make everyone feel welcomed, valued, and loved. Her home was a place of comfort, laughter, and belonging, and her greatest happiness came from seeing her family together.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Jesus and Petra Rivera; her sisters, Bertha Rivera and Alice Rivera; her brother, J.R. Rivera; and her mother-in-law, Martina Gallegos. Her family finds comfort in knowing she has been reunited with those who went before her and is once again embraced by the loved ones she carried so dearly in her heart.

Although her passing leaves an immeasurable void, her love and legacy will continue to live on through the family she cherished, the traditions she created, and the values she instilled in everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her influence will continue to be felt through the lives of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and the many friends whose lives she enriched. The enduring love she shared with Albert for more than 58 years, the warmth she brought to every family gathering, and the kindness she extended so freely will never be forgotten.

Yolanda will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. May she rest in the eternal peace of God's loving embrace, and may her memory forever be a blessing.

Visitation for Yolanda will begin at 6 PM Thursday, July 16, 2026, at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, 1240 S. Espina Street with the Prayer Vigil at 7 PM. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 AM Friday, July 17, 2026, in the same church with The Reverend Alejandro Reyes, Celebrant. At her request cremation will follow and Inurnment of cremains will take place at a later date.

Serving as casket bearers are, her two sons, Johnny and Tony Lopez, son-in-law, Doug Stokes, three grandsons, Anthony Stokes, John "Little John" Lopez, and Ryan Lopez. Honorary bearers will be Alex Alvarez, Jason Barela and Jaime Lopez.

Service arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Baca's Funeral Chapels of Las Cruces, 300 E. Boutz Road, 527-2222. Your exclusive provider for "Veterans and Family Memorial Care." For online condolences logon to www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com