Elizabeth Maestas

On Sunday, September 10, 2023, Elizabeth Archuleta Maestas, beloved wife, mother, and grandmother passed away at the age of 87 in La Puebla, New Mexico.  Born in the rural mountain community of Coyote, New Mexico she left at an early age to fulfill a life of discovery and accomplishment. 

Together, she and her husband of 68 years, Gerald, embarked on a journey taking them from Los Angeles, CA to Southern New Mexico to San Antonio, Texas and ultimately back to their shared roots in Northern New Mexico.  After successfully raising three children, Elizabeth returned to her university studies earning a bachelor’s degree from the College of Santa Fe.  She held numerous professional positions and retired as an Internal Auditor with the University of California/Los Alamos National Laboratory in 1993.

Inspired by a strong love of country and a sense of duty to its people, Elizabeth gave generously of her time, her energies, and her talents.  She served as a member of the Northern New Mexico Community College Board of Regents and also as Chairperson of the New Mexico State Parole Board.  Active in the Republican Party, she took on various roles and was elected to a term as Chair of the Republican Party of New Mexico.  Her innate wisdom and charm an immeasurable asset in each and every endeavor.

A principal driver, and the foundation of her desire to make the lives of others better, was her strong faith in God.  Engagement in church as an active member of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Altar Society was complemented by a connection to the needs of the entire community as a member of the Presbyterian Espanola Hospital Auxiliary.  In fact, it was Elizabeth's deep caring and compassion coupled with an unparalleled work ethic which brought a rare humanity and grace to all of those who lived in her sphere.

Elizabeth is survived by her husband Gerald Maestas; son Jerry (Donna Harris) Maestas, daughter Janice (Jiri Nechleba) Maestas-Nechleba, son James (Janelle) Maestas; and grandchildren Jacob, Kirsten, and Kaitlyn.  She is survived also by siblings Maria Rarick, Jacobo Archuleta, Rita Bieri, Tomas Archuleta, Teresa Archuleta-Spires and numerous nieces and nephews.

Deeply, deeply loved, always in our thoughts, forever in our hearts.

Rosary and Funeral Mass will be held at the Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Parish in Espanola, NM on Friday, September 29, 2023.  Rosary at 11:30 am; Mass to follow at 12:00 noon.  A private burial will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

Arrangements are under the care of DeVargas Funeral Home.  For information or online guestbook, visit www.devargasfuneral.com.

The family of Elizabeth Maestas has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the beautiful Espanola Valley.   www.devargasfuneral.com   505-747-7477