Our beloved mother, Maria, Benina Olonia age 101. Died peacefully April 9, 2026 surrounded by her daughter and son. She was born September 1, 1924 in Llano Quemado, New Mexico to Teofilo and Estefanita Mondragon.

Maria's first husband was Clemaco Chavez, who was serving his country and died during World War II. Together they had one son Clem Chavez who is now deceased. She later married Henry Olonia, and together they had five children Manuel, Patsy, Elmer, Stevie, and Angela. Maria had 8 siblings, Alice, Juan, Elisa, Rosana, Vivian, Ida,Teofilo and Carmen.

We were very blessed to have had Mom with us for so many years. She always welcomed anyone in her home with open arms. She made sure no one left hungry. Her specialties were homemade bread, chili,tortillas and canned goods. Maria’s favorite pass time was going to the casino. She never left home without getting dolled up. She will be greatly missed.

She is survived by her daughter Patricia (patsy) and her son in law Manny Gonzales, her son Elmer, her brother Teofilo Mondragon, her sister Carmen Martinez, 7 Grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren, 27 great great grandchildren and 3 great great great grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents Teofilo and Estephanita Mondragon, her children, Manuel, Stevie, and Angela, her siblings, Alice, Juan, Elisa, Rosana, Vivian and Ida.

A rosary will be held on April 22, 2026 at 9AM at San Francisco de Asís Catholic Church with a mass to follow at 10AM. 

Maria will be laid to rest along side her husband at Santa Fe National Cemetery on the same day at 2:30PM