Elsie Surface

Elsie Jane Surface transitioned into eternal honor to be with our Lord and Savior on December 18, 2024. She passed peacefully in her home with her family at the age of 92. She will be remembered as a beloved wife, mother and grandmother.

Elsie Jane is survived by her husband of 72 years, Ray Surface; her daughter, Sharon Surface-Lucero & son in-law, Benjamin Lucero; her son Michael Surface & daughter in-law Karen Buccola; and her only grandchild, Alyssa Lucero. She is preceded in death by her mother and father, Bessie and Oscar Watts; along with her 3 sisters and 5 brothers. She is survived and preceded by many family members she loved dearly from Missouri, Iowa, Wisconsin, and Alaska. She spoke often about being reunited with her family in heaven!

Among Elsie's most significant accomplishments was raising her two children, loving her husband, and providing a loving and Godly home. She served as an office manager for an insurance agency, in Kansas City, Missouri; and upon moving to New Mexico, was a cafeteria manager for Albuquerque Public Schools. Once retired, she spent her time helping raise her granddaughter. Elsie was a devoted Christian, strong in her faith and having a close relationship with God. Ray and Elsie spent most their lives active in Loma Del Rey Baptist church.

Elsie had a great love for reading and treasured a good book. She had a vibrant mischievous spirit she only shared with her family. Cooking was a joy for her, and she was an excellent cook!

In the words of her husband, "You've been wonderful, honey!"

Psalm 73:26

My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

A LETTER FROM HEAVEN

When tomorrow starts without me, and I'm not here to see -

if the sun should rise and find your eyes, are filled with tears for me.

I wish so much you would not cry, the way you did today.

While thinking of the many things, we didn't get to say.

I know how much you love me, as much as I love you.

And each time you think of me I know you'll miss me too.

But when tomorrow starts without me, please try to understand -

that an angel came and called my name, and took me by the hand.

And said my place was ready, in heaven far above -

and that I'd have to leave behind, all those I dearly loved.

But when I walked through heaven's gate, I felt so much at home.

When God looked down and smiled at me, from His great golden throne.

He said this is eternity, and all I have promised you.

Today your life on Earth has passed, but here it starts a new.

I promise no tomorrow, for today will always last.

And since each day's the same, there's no longing for the past.

So when tomorrow starts without me, don't think we're far apart.

For every time you think of me, I'm right here in your heart.

Poem authored by Alena Hakala Meadows

Elsie preferred to live a quiet and simple life. In lieu of services or visitation, she preferred a quiet remembrance of her life. Please take a moment to share your best memory of Elsie below.

Memorial donations in Elsie's name may be directed to her favorite charity, Joy Junction. Donations may be mailed to P.O. Box 20550, Albuquerque, NM 87154, or made over their website: joyjunction.org. Office manager JoBeth is wonderful and can be reached at 505-217-9586. Please say, "in honor of Elsie Surface" when making your donation.