Gloria Rita Noriega

Gloria Rita Noriega June 26, 1935 - June 25, 2021 Gloria was born in Lincoln County, New Mexico, to Daniel and Caroline C. Vigil on June 26, 1935. They moved to Roswell, NM, where she graduated from Roswell High School in 1953. Once out of school, she married the most handsome guy in town, Charles Leon Noriega. They had four children together that survive them, Sadie Noriega Carrillo, Lillian Marie Noriega, Charles Edward Noriega, Louis Oscar Noriega; grandchildren: Cari Ann Gonzales, Christine Wiggins, Ross, Gabriel and Hector Solis, Carlos, Steven and Rita Noriega, Chelsie Brianna Noriega, Sonny and Andriana Noriega; her great-grandchildren; as well as her sister, Patsy Neatherlin of Farmington, New Mexico. Gloria is preceded in death by her granddaughter, Stormey Rae Rodriguez; parents: Daniel and Caroline Vigil; sister, Erminda Gutierrez; brother, Danny J. Vigil; and her little protector (chihuahua), “CHAPO.” Gloria’s first job was working for the Welfare Department, where at the time, she handled the distribution of food stamps. After that, she became a social worker for children, and later her job progressed to being there for elderly adults. She would also interpret for the courts and was very fluent in both English and Spanish. A devoted Catholic, Gloria paved the way for God to her family. She was an Assumption Catholic Church Catechism teacher and a member of their choir, she loved to sing for the Lord. Gloria’s most treasured gift from God was the opportunity to speak and teach his word by preparing the children for their First Holy Communion, it was a blessing. Mom loved good conversations and family gatherings, especially when her brothers-in-law would play their guitars and sing. She loved dancing and would always brag about teaching Daddy how to dance. Her life was full of adventure, traveling to Brazil with her sister-in-law Soledad Noriega, even driving up to Ruidoso to play the penny machines, and never finding the time to be bored. Gloria’s favorite sayings were “Never believe anything you hear, and only half of what you see,” “If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say nothing at all,” and the last one that makes us laugh is, “Who’s who in park Zoo?” She had a good sense of humor, that’s for sure. I want to thank the Hospice staff in Roswell for taking good care of her. Tim Arlet “(Chaplin) who sang beautiful Christian songs for her, Stacy Maxwell and Valerie Albarez (CNA’s) for leaving Mom so refreshed and comfortable, Rebecca her nurse that took her vitals and Helen the social worker. Also, Hospice in Albuquerque for the wonderful and gracious treatment, Issac (social worker) for handling all respite care and especially Donna (nurse) for always being there for her. I thank all of you for your care, compassion and love. Mostly, I thank her therapists throughout the years that put Mom back on her feet in the past. Sharon B. Pasiona for her love and care she gave Mom and Lori Brown for also being there. We love you for your dedication. A Viewing will be at Anderson Bethany Funeral Home on Thursday, July 8, 2021, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. A Graveside Service for Gloria will be held at South Park Cemetery on Saturday, July 10, 2021, at 10:00 AM. Please take a moment and share a kind thought or memory with Gloria’s family at www.andersonbethany.com. Gloria’s tribute was written in her honor by her family. Oh Heavenly Father, can you hear me? I’m sending a prayer your way, I’m clutching hard to my faith, as mom taught me, As she draws closer to you each day. I talk to her in whispers, and hope she hears me pray, I hope you send an angel To guide her towards your way. I continue to tell her I love her And thank her for all the sacrifices she has made And for her unconditional love, No matter what kind of behavior I displayed. Mom, can you hear me? I have so much more to say. I will continue with your legacy. I hope I can be as strong as you one day. You taught me the importance of family. I have learned from the very best. Don’t you worry yourself now, Mom, You keep yourself at rest. I’m sorry if I’m selfish. I’m not ready to let go of your hand. I’m trying to remember the message From “Footprints In The Sand.” Dear Mom, can you please wake up? I have not heard your voice today. I promise I would sit and listen To everything you want to say. I know you are getting weary. You are ready to go home. I imagine you are dreaming of your Savior Sitting upon his throne. I hope you take my love with you, As tears fall on your cheek. Dear God, please carry me through this, I’m feeling very weak. Dear Mom, I’m very thankful For all the years we’ve had. I’m trying to remember you laughing So I will not stay very sad. Through the rest of my life I will carry All your love with me. I promise I will be the best mom, grandmother and person that I can possibly be. God must think your time is almost done here. I feel you going away, I love you, Mom. No goodbyes. I will see you one day.