Mary Naranjo

Mary Elizabeth Valdez Naranjo

With deep love and gratitude, we announce the passing of Mary Elizabeth Valdez Naranjo, who peacefully left this world early Saturday morning. She was born and raised in Santa Fe, NM, where she built a life rooted in faith, family, and service to others. Mary dedicated much of her time to supporting her community, serving in various organizations such as the Retirement Public Employees Association, Educational Retirement Association, I.O.F. Membership Association, and AARP. She was an active PTA president at MacArthur Elementary, Brownie leader, and Valley High Booster Club president. Mary also had a heart for mentorship, welcoming UNM students and individuals from Mexico into her home while they pursued their studies or received medical care.

Mary's professional journey was remarkable, starting at the Yucca Drive-In Theatre and later serving at the College of Santa Fe Admissions Office while attending classes. She pursued education and personal growth, taking courses at the University of New Mexico and participating in numerous medical seminars and conferences. Her career included roles as an executive secretary at the State Auditor's ORice in Santa Fe, as well as positions with Santa Fe Public Schools, Albuquerque Public Schools, and the UNM Maternity and Infant Care Project. She retired in 1996 from UNM Recreational Services, dedicating her later years to her family.

However, Mary's greatest and most cherished roles were those of wife, mother, and grandmother. She was devoted to raising her children, Nancy and Jason, and took immense pride in her grandchildren, whom she considered her greatest joy. She was a counselor, a friend, and a guiding light to many-always opening her home and heart to those in need.

Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she was a member of the Third Order of St. Francis at the Cathedral in Santa Fe. She lived by the words of 2 Timothy 4:7- "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."

Mary leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and wisdom. She is survived by her beloved children Nancy Cravens (Todd Cravens) and Jason Naranjo (Cindy Naranjo); her cherished grandchildren Reyna Naranjo, Adrianna Naranjo, Derek Cravens, Alec Cravens; and her brother Bernie Valdez. She is preceded in death by her parents, Eduvigen Maes Valdez and Bernabe Valdez, sister Dolores Mares, and brother Edward O. Valdez

As we say goodbye, we hold onto her final words of encouragement: "Love each other as I have loved you without any reservations. Always be supportive and there for each other. Take time to smell the roses, appreciate life, and be grateful for the blessings God has given you."

Mary, your love will remain in our hearts forever. See you in the beyond. Pray for us and think of us.

A Rosary will be recited at 10:30 AM, followed by a Memorial Mass at 11:00 AM on March 21 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, 1860 Griegos Rd NW, Albuquerque. Entombment will take place immediately after at Mount Calvary Cemetery, 900 Edith Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM, 87102.

Pallbearers will be Derek Cravens, Alec Cravens, Todd Cravens, Leroy Valdez, Bernard Valdez, Dennis Mares, Mark Mares, and Marissa Medrano.

Honorary pallbearers include Marlene Medrano, Adele Mares, Jennifer Cordova, Jessica Romero, and Janet Romero.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the M.S. Association or Watermelon Ranch Animal Shelter in Rio Rancho, NM. Your kindness and generosity are deeply appreciated