Esther Mary Griego

1940-2022

Esther Mary Griego, 81, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on Wednesday, July 27, 2022, in Socorro, N.M.

Esther was born on Dec. 31, 1940, in Socorro, N.M., to Ramon and Petrita (Chavez) Griego.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Salomon L. Griego; her parents, Ramon and Petrita Griego; her sisters Anna Gamez and Julia Montantez; and brother Tony Griego.

She is survived by her sister, Clara Mae Griego; her children, Salo Jr. and wife Tina Griego, Annabell and husband Herman Romero, and Nathan Griego; her grandchildren, Robert Griego and partner Danielle Hernandez, Monique and husband Josh Rasmussen, Sal Griego, Tristan Griego, Ryan Romero and Levi Romero; her great-grandchildren, Mya Montoya, Molly, Ayvah and Neveah Griego, Zamari Romero, Carlitos Hernandez Griego and Marissa Rasmussen, Isaac and Andres Hernandez Robison; and many wonderful nephews and nieces.

Esther worked for over 67 years in many different fields. In 1966, she began working for Eagle Pitcher as an assembly worker.

Then for the next 25 years, she worked as a jeweler for Raychester Jewelry. Finally, she worked for 27½ years for Socorro Consolidated Schools. Also, from 2017 until March 2022, she worked as a caregiver.

Esther retired twice from Socorro Consolidated Schools. First, in December 2005, she retired as head cook, then again in May 2020 as bus monitor.

Our mother had a deep passion for baking and cooking for others. She took immense pride in preparing her delicious foods.

She made sure that anyone who entered her home felt welcomed and left fed.

Esther adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She would always brag on their many accomplishments.

She was always there to support and encourage them. She made sure they felt loved and appreciated. And she always encouraged them to love with all their heart.

She had a witty sense of humor, but always in good taste. She had an uncanny ability to make circumstances seem brighter, no matter how serious the matter.

Esther spent many hours caring for her beautiful plants and flowers. At times, she would complain she had too many to keep up, but she would find herself buying more to add to her collection.

She was an avid Dallas Cowboys football fan and a loyal supporter, no matter the score or outcome. While others would curse in their losses, she always managed to be graceful in defeat. She always enjoyed watching them with her family.

She cherished her time spent with her many wonderful friends, taking many trips to the casinos, sitting and enjoying a cup of coffee with sweets and sharing their many conversations and memories.

The memories of our dear mom, who was so strong in our lives, so independent and beautiful, will be cherished for eternity. She will be forever missed.

MA, WE LOVE YOU TO THE MOON AND BACK!!

El Defensor Chieftain