Elijio "Lee" Medina

Elijio “Lee” Medina born on April 5, 1939, in Salem, New Mexico, to Manuel and Natividad Medina, passed away peacefully on October 31, 2024. Known for his unwavering dedication to his country, community, and family, Lee led an extraordinary life of service and resilience. He was proceeded in death by his wife Olivia, his brother Danny, Manuel “Bay” and sister Lucy’ Tita”. He is survived by his brother Jose “Leo”, his sisters Irene “la May” and Rosemary “Peqie”.

In 1953, at the young age of 14, he joined the military, enlisting in the 20th Infantry Regiment, Fox Company. He trained at Fort Ord, California, before serving in the Korean War as part of the anti-aircraft artillery. Following his service overseas, he was stationed at Fort Hamilton in Brooklyn, New York, where he spent three remarkable years and enjoyed attending shows at the Paramount Theater featuring musical legends like Elvis Presley, Little Richard, and Fats Domino. 

Upon returning home, he married the love of his life, Olivia Narvaez Cream and together they moved to Moses Lake, Washington with his brother Leo and sister-in-law Teresa. He returned to Las Cruces and built a home which he called “la Casita”, a haven for friends and family alike. His talents and ambition led him to a decade-long career with NASA from 1960 to 1970, contributing to the nation’s space exploration efforts. 

In the 1970s, he joined the Police Academy, where he fulfilled his lifelong dream proudly graduated as the oldest cadet of his class. He was committed to helping his community and served until 1992. He served in the Sheriff's Department for 14 years, becoming a cornerstone of the department's cold case unit. His expertise and commitment were invaluable to multiple divisions, including Auto Theft, Burglary, Homicide, and Cold Cases, where he spent his days pursuing justice with relentless dedication.

Lee was also a member of the Knights of Columbus and a lifetime member of the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), exemplifying his lifelong commitment to his faith and fraternity.

A devoted family man, Lee was the proud father of Leo (Kathleen), Gina (Pat), Salina (Jimmy) and Veronica (Johnny)and a loving grandfather to Lois, Matthew, Nikko, Christina, Roman, Marcus, Ben, Will, Alex, Layla and Josie. A Great-Grandfather to Rachal, Lawrence, Donny and one on the way. He loved and was loved by many nieces and nephews. His legacy will forever be cherished by his family, friends, and all who knew him. Loly enjoyed playing the guitar with life-long childhood friend Charlie Evans, while his wife of 67 years, Olivia fed any and all who came over. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy of service, integrity, and love that will continue to inspire generations to come.

Funeral services will be held at St. Genevieve’s Catholic church on November 8, 2024. Viewing at 1:00 pm, rosary at 1:30 pm, funeral mass at 2:00 pm. Burial services following at San Jose cemetery.