Gloria Smith Obituary in Truth or Consequences at Kirikos Family Funeral Home, Inc

Obituary For Gloria Smith

Gloria Smith, 80, passed away Tuesday, December 19, 2023, after a long period of declining health at her residence in Truth or Consequences, with her daughter Rosie by her side. Gloria was born in Isleta, NM to Manuel Martinez and Rosa Lueras on September 11, 1943. She was an ESL teacher for many years. She was a faithful member of St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church in Albuquerque, NM, where she helped with the newsletter, played the bells in the bell choir, and took communion to those who could not make it to church. She was also very involved in the Special Olympics Equestrian Program and Equestrian Therapy for the handicapped, and others in the community who were less fortunate. Gloria lived for her horses, and she loved being able to share that passion with others. She was widowed in 2015, after 40+ years of marriage to her second husband, Frank Smith. She was a mother to 2 natural daughters, 4 stepdaughters, 2 stepsons, and just about anyone else she met. She was still friends with her ex-husband, John Rael, as well as all his other wives. She thought of his stepchildren as her own and his brothers remained a big part of her life. In her spare time, Gloria loved doing needlepoint and woodworking, until she got where she could no longer see due to macular degeneration.

Gloria is survived by her children: Rosie Burke (Michael Burke), Catalina Rael, Rosalie Ferguson, Rhodney Smith, Patricia Chojnowski, Frances Swartz (Ray), Lola Smith- Daoud, and Leeann Jennings (DJ); her brother: Larry Martinez (Rachel); and sister in law, Kelly Martinez; as well as numerous grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; stepson, Tom Smith; stepdaughter, Cathy Sieber; granddaughter, Vickie; 3 brothers; as well as multiple aunts, uncles and cousins.

Rosie would like to thank those in the community of T. or C., who were instrumental in helping her mom remain as independent as possible until the end. Most notably, her mail carrier, Jennifer; housekeepers/caregivers, Nita Horttor-Hines and Genelle Padilla (and her family); cosmetologist, Silva; and the workers at the senior center, EMS community program; the nurses of Ambercare Home Health and Hospice; Dominic, who adopted her dogs after her passing; and most of all Rosie’s husband Michael, for always running the errands us crazy women sent you on.

Cremation has taken place and Gloria will be laid to rest alongside her husband, Frank, at Santa Fe National Cemetery. A celebration of Gloria's Life will be announced this summer in Albuquerque.

The family asks that in Lieu of flowers, please consider planting a tree in Gloria’s memory. A link is available below.

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Ileana Carlson planted 10 trees in memory of Gloria Smith . - January 07, 2024

Plant trees for Gloria Smith

Rosie Burke planted 5 trees in memory of Gloria Smith . - January 07, 2024

Rosie E. Burke planted 5 trees in memory of Gloria Smith . - December 29, 2023

I have so many memories with my grandma. All my memories are filled with love and some that just make me smile. I am not exactly sure how old I was but I was little, grandma and grandpa took my Christmas tree planted it in the backyard. My mom and I went by the house a long time ago and it was still there. Grandma you will always be in my heart. I will always love and miss you. I know you are with grandpa now. With all my love your granddaughter Heidi.

I will always remember her laugh and her tight hugs. She was always so happy. Rest now Joe portio

Gloria is my 1st cousin,I loved her dearly. She was always there for me she was one of the first to hold my daughter Isabella after she was transported to alb. NM cause she was a premature baby. Gloria and Frank open there door for me so I could be close to my daughter. God Bless her and may she rest in peace. My prayer and condolences to the family

When I was young. I thought my grandma was one of the meanest people ever. But as I grew, raised by the best parents anyone could ever ask for. Rosie & Michael burke. I learned my grandma was just doing her best to raise me for the best life I could possibly have. In my later years I was able to enjoy some time drinking our favorite beer together (coors) with one another. Sharing secrets. Laughing, watching old tv. Talking about old toys. Talkin about grandpa. Things I'll cherish forever

Sending love to all who care.

I first met Gloria 50 years ago after I married her ex- husband. She welcomed me with open arms into her home as well as into the lives of her precious daughters. We remained friends ever since. The last time I saw her at her granddaughter's high school graduation, it was as if we had never been apart. I am blessed she allowed me to be a part of her daughter's lives. It is of comfort to know she's safe in the arms of Jesus now.

Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

Kirikos Family Funeral Home, Inc | Truth or Consequences, NM