She was born October 20, 1951 in Santa Rita to Jose and Elena Ortiz Mendoza. Cookie was loved by all and lived life to the absolute fullest, by her faith and knowledge of the Bible. She has always been an animal lover, her cat Precious was her baby; but most of all she was happiest when she was on a horse. She was an avid Los Angeles Dodgers, Lakers, and Rams fan. She has an amazing talent for planning beautiful parties and decorating; doing any other crafts; but most of all her quilting. Many were fortunate to have been gifted a quilt from her that was truly made with love in every stitch. Everything she did in life she did with her whole heart and amazing personality. She could light any room she walked in with her smile and laugh. She always had a story to tell, especially about her childhood growing up in Santa Rita. The way her fact lit up when she would talk about her Santa Rita days, with all her sisters, primos and friends that she loved so much was priceless. She was the best mom, sister, companion, friend; but most of all NANA. Her grandkids were her whole world, she would do anything for them, and would never miss a single thing. She made and imprint on everyone’s heart and will be truly missed. She is survived by one son, Eddie Joe Norero and wife Luisa of Arenas Valley; two daughters, Anita Norero and companion Tony Garcia of Arenas Valley; Crystal Arellano and husband Sam of Bayard; six grandchildren; Bianca Norero and companion Juan Carlos Peru, Edward “Tikey” Norero Jr., Haven Norero, Joshua Arellano, Bella Norero, and Samantha Arellano; her companion, Henry Sedillos; two sisters, Priscilla “Pia” Merino and husband Carlos of Bayard; Esther Mendoza of Bayard; numerous nieces and nephews, compadres and numerous godchildren; special cousin, Helen Galindo; special friends, Mary Lou Rios, Yolanda Valle and the late Viola Escobar. Last but not least her cat, Precious. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Eloy S. Norero Jr., (8/00); a sister, Ana Mendoza; mother in-law, Eva Norero; special cousin, Betty Alcorta.
A Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, January 14 at 9am at Terrazas Funeral Chapels with Pastor Joseph Gros officiating.
Concluding service and inurnment will follow at Fort Bayard National Cemetery where she will be laid to rest with her husband.
Cremation will take place at Terrazas Crematory.
Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels and Crematory “Trusted care for the ones you love” ~ 575-537-0777. To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com.