Emilia Baca 1925-2025 Emilia Baca, 99, of TomÃÂ, passed away

Emilia Baca 1925-2025 Emilia Baca, 99, of TomÃ, passed away on Feb. 15, 2025. Services will take place on Monday, March 3, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, beginning with a visitation at 9 a.m., followed by a Rosary at 10 a.m., and Funeral Mass to be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Interment will take place at 11 a.m., Tuesday, March 4, at the Santa Fe National Cemetery. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 65 years, Odelio Baca, of TomÃ; her parents, Estevan and Aurelia Lopez; and her siblings Benito, Amalia, Lugarda, Lucia, Manuel, Espiridion, Filimon, Eluterio, Onesima and Eduardo. She is survived by her brother, Estanislado; her daughters, Victoria Baca and Bernadette Pumper (Charlie); her granddaughter, Vanessa Callahan; as well as numerous loving nieces and nephews. Special thanks to her devoted caregiver, Mary Sparks, who provided love and care for the last eight years of her life. Emilia was born in Pueblitos, the second youngest of 12 children. She married Odelio in 1947 after he returned from World War II. Emilia earned a bachelor's degree in social work from New Mexico Highlands University. She began her career with the New Mexico Department of Health and Social Services in Las Cruces, and served as quality control manager upon her retirement. Following retirement, Emilia and Odelio returned to the family home in TomÃ, where she remained active in her community. She was a devoted member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and the St. Vincent de Paul Society. Emilia was also active in the Valencia County Republican Party and served on the board for the New Mexico Department of Corrections under Gov. Gary Carruthers. Emilia's heart was always centered in the Lopez family, where she provided constant support, love and inspiration. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Please sign Emilia's online tribute at romerofuneralhomenm.com. Romero Funeral Home, 609 N. Main St., Belen.