Karen Mavvaji

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Karen Elizabeth Hardin Mavvaji, who departed this world unexpectedly on January 2, 2025, at the age of 65. Born in Las Cruces, New Mexico, Karen spent her childhood and young adult life in Las Cruces and delighted in returning "home" last year when she moved back to the city she loved.

Karen earned her Bachelor's Degree from New Mexico State University and became a Certified Teacher in Texas, reflecting her dedication to education and to caring for those with special needs. Karen also cared for others by working with adults as a Certified Nursing Assistant. For the last many years, Karen devoted her life to full time care of her mother; a sacrificial great act of love toward her mother and the whole family, for which the family will forever be grateful. Her love for animals, especially dogs, was well-known among her friends and family. She found immense joy in the companionship they provided and she was so happy to have gotten her newest pup recently.

Karen is survived by her loving mother, Esther Lucille Hardin; her children, Hana Auchenbach and Aria Mavvaji; her siblings, Dave Hardin, Laura Sollars, and Janet Sanders; three granddaughters, and a host of cherished friends. She will be remembered for her vibrant spirit, her passion for swimming, her encyclopedic knowledge of Olympic swimming and gymnastics, and for the countless memorable moments shared with family and friends. Karen was preceded in death by her father, Neil Hardin.

A celebration of Karen's life will be held at University United Methodist Church, 2000 S. Locust, at 10:00am on January 15, 2025 immediately followed by a graveside service at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Animal Services Center of the Mesilla Valley.