Hortencia Butler

Hortencia Butler, of Fairacres, New Mexico, passed away peacefully at her home on March 21, 2025, surrounded by her loving family, at the age of 93. She was born on September 22, 1931, and is now reunited with her beloved husband of 72 years, Joe Fred Butler, her daughter Yvonne Butler, her son Mark Butler, her mother Maggie Banegas, her father Frank Valles, her sister Gloria Montoya, and her brother Ernesto Valles.

Hortencia’s legacy of love, dedication, and strength lives on through her surviving children, Deborah (Debbie) Brown and her husband Robert, and Gary Butler and his wife Fatima. She was a cherished grandmother to Jerrod Butler (Kim Salazar), Valerie Martinez, Michelle Martinez, Donald Martinez (Cynthia Renteria), Justin Butler (Marissa Butler), Ronny Martinez (Samantha Candelaria), Jonathan Butler (Cynthia Butler), Jacqueline Butler Douglas (Brad Douglas), Mark Anthony Butler, and 12 great-grandchildren, who were her pride and joy.

A passionate cook, Hortencia was known for her love of preparing meals that brought the family together, especially during holiday gatherings that she and Joe Fred hosted. Her home was always filled with delicious food and the sound of laughter, creating memories that her family will hold dear forever. Her best-known gifts were her hand-sewn blankets that she loved to make for her family and friends.

Hortencia had a variety of interests and hobbies that brought joy to her life. She enjoyed time at the casino, often making a friend for the day by sparking up a conversation with whomever sat at the machine next to her. Her true passion, however, was dancing. She and Joe Fred were regulars on the dance floor, often spending weekends with friends and family, enjoying the rhythm and joy that dancing brought to their lives. She was also always working on projects for her grandchildren to craft when they visited.

A devoted homemaker, Hortencia also gave her time to Immaculate Heart of Mary, the church where her children attended Catholic school. She and Joe Fred raised their family in the home across from the church in Las Cruces, instilling in their children the values of faith and service. After her children were grown, she found fulfillment as a teacher’s aide, a role that allowed her to continue supporting her community and making a positive impact on the lives of children.

Hortencia will be deeply missed by her family and friends, who will forever remember her for the love she gave, the joy she spread, and the legacy of warmth and generosity she leaves behind.

Viewing is scheduled from 9:00 am to 10:00 am on Wednesday April 9, 2025, at Getz Funeral Home, Rosary will be at 10:30 am at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Las Cruces, funeral mass will begin at 11:00 am also at Immaculate Heart of Mary. Followed by burial at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens.

May she rest in peace, forever with Joe Fred, Yvonne, Mark, and all her loved ones who have gone before her.