In Loving Memory of Mary Clara Vasquez

Mary Clara Vasquez, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, peacefully entered eternal rest on September 5, 2026, in Taos, New Mexico, at the age of 83.

Born on May 20, 1943, Clara devoted her life to public service through her work with the New Mexico Department of Health in Taos. A devoted wife and mother of three, she found lasting joy in faith, family, service, and the simple blessing of being together.

Clara’s faith in God guided her life and was reflected in her service to Mount Zion Church. She expressed that faith through grace, kindness, quiet strength, and the warmth with which she welcomed and cared for others.

Clara’s legacy is woven from love, strength, faith, hospitality, and devotion to family. With her generous heart, lively spirit, and gift for bringing people together, she made every gathering warmer and brighter. She taught those around her to meet life’s unexpected moments with grace, an open heart, and a good sense of humor.

Though deeply missed, Clara’s love will live on in the hearts, stories, laughter, and traditions of those who knew her. Her family will honor her memory with both sorrow and gratitude for the beautiful life she shared.

Special gratitude goes to Clara’s granddaughter, Victoria “Tori,” and her grandson, Thomas Jr., who lovingly cared for her in Ranchos de Taos. Their compassion, patience, devotion, and love brought Clara comfort and will remain a cherished blessing to the entire family.

Clara was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Simon Orona; her parents, Ernest and Gabrielita (Romero) Vasquez; her grandson, Ernest P. Vasquez; nephew Jason P. Vasquez; her granddaughter Valerie’s husband, 1Lt David Schmitz; her sister-in-law, Berlinda Vasquez; and her brother-in-law, Lorenzo Montoya.

Clara is survived by her loving family which includes her children; Terry Ronald Vasquez (Laura Sanchez), Thomas Vasquez (Pam Vasquez), and Donna Vasquez Rudolph; her grandchildren, Terry-Isaiah “T-I” Vasquez, Thomas Jr. Vasquez, Victoria “Tori” Vasquez, Valerie Schmitz, and Ryan Rudolph and his wife, Sage Rudolph; and her great-grandsons, Ernest Vasquez, Zander Vasquez, Orrin Rudolph, and Ari Rudolph. Clara is also survived by her brothers, Eloy Vasquez and Robert (Francella) Vasquez; her sisters, Mary Ellen Montoya (Godson Mark Montoya) and Shirley (Leroy) Lopez; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends who loved and cherished her.

Services will be held at Mt Zion Tabernacle on September 11, 2026, at 11AM, at 1507 Paseo Del Pueblo Norte, across from El Prado Post Office. 

Clara will be laid to rest at the Placita community cemetery next to her grandson and according to her wishes.

Our family is deeply grateful to everyone who has honored Clara’s life and kept us in their thoughts and prayers. Your love, generosity, friendship, and kindness have brought us comfort and will never be forgotten.

Rivera Family Funeral Home is accepting donations for Mary Clara Vasquez by phone at 575-758-3841 in person.