Veronica Yzeta

Maria Veronica “Roni” Yzeta, 59, of Santa Fe, New Mexico, departed this life peacefully on January 28, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. Known for her radiant smile and joyful spirit, Roni brought light to every space she entered and to every heart she touched. She leaves behind a legacy of laughter, boundless warmth, and unwavering optimism that deeply touched all who knew her.

Born on March 15, 1966, in McAllen, Texas, Veronica was the daughter of Enrique and Maria De Los Angeles Lugo Yzeta. She is survived by her beloved wife, Karen Yzeta de Avila, and siblings Delores (Terry) Thomas, Lina (Arnie) Perez, Jorge Yzeta, and Raymond Yzeta, as well as numerous cherished cousins, nieces and nephews. Roni was also very close to her wife’s family, Michael and Loretta Davila, Deborah (Larry) Linne, Jade Davila and Elise (James) Wilkerson. She also had numerous treasured close friends, caregivers and adopted family, who brought significant meaning to her life. She joins her beloved pets Jadeheart, Satchel, Ben and Punkin, and leaves behind her ‘babies’ Leo, Tristan, Ru-B and Pansita.

From a young age, Roni showed an insatiable curiosity and a boundless love for life—traits that would guide her through a lifetime of service, exploration, and compassion. After graduating high school, she proudly served her country as a Sergeant in the U.S. Army, training in telecommunication, helping to lay the foundation for the modern cell phone industry. Her dedication and intelligence led her to a successful civilian career with AT&T, where she worked as a cell phone technician and network designer. She later poured her creativity and love for wellness into owning and operating her own aromatherapy business.

Roni was not one to stop growing or dreaming. Her life was one of continuous exploration—of the world, of knowledge, and of the human spirit. She described herself as a lifelong learner, and that was beautifully evident in everything she pursued. She earned 2 Bachelor’s degrees in Business Administration and Latin American Studies. Roni worked tirelessly to improve the world around her, whether through helping animals in need or conducting meaningful research on veterans’ reintegration into civilian life. Her sense of purpose was guided by kindness and a belief that no obstacle was too great to overcome. Roni truly embraced life and had an infectious love for dancing, animals and helping others see the best in themselves. Her resilient spirit and love for life inspired everyone around her.

A celebration of Roni’s life will be held on what would have been her 60th birthday, March 15, 2026, at 12 p.m. at the Kiva Chapel at Rivera Funeral Home in Santa Fe. Her cremains will be interred at the Santa Fe National Cemetery the following morning, March 16, at 9 a.m. As we remember Roni, her light continues to shine through those she loved and inspired.

“I am made of light. I am made of stars… The real us is pure love, pure light... in every human, in every animal, in every tree, in the water, in the rain, in the clouds, in the earth.” — Don Miguel Ruiz

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