Carmel C. Rivera, 86, was called home to the Lord on Tuesday, June 30, 2009. Carmel was born in Tererro, New Mexico to Encarnacion and Ignacita (Cortez) Rivera. Carmel served her country proudly in the Women's Army Air Corps, from 1941-1942. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend and will be missed by all who knew and loved her. Carmel was a very strong and independent woman, her greatest wish was not to out live her children and that wish was fulfilled. Carmel was preceded in death by her parents; brother Albert Rivera Sr.; and granddaughter Shannen Lynn Blakeney. She is survived by her loving children Patsy Blakeney and husband Gene, Boyd Simpson, Shirley Kelley and husband Joe, Rick Simpson, Grandison "Gucci" Flanery Jr., Rhea Chavez and husband Ronnie, Lela Heineken and husband Russell, Lila Linson, and David Flanery and wife Elizabeth, 22 grandchildren and 46 great-grandchildren. Also surviving brother John C. Rivera and wife LeNeil and sister Ramona Lawson and husband Boyd. Visitation will be held on Sunday, July 5, 2009 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in the Carlisle Chapel of Daniels Family Funeral Services with a Rosary to be recited at 6:00 p.m. also in the Chapel. A Prayer Service will be held on Monday, July 6, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. in the Carlisle Chapel of Daniels Family Funeral Services. Interment will follow at El Macho Cemetery, El Macho, NM. Pallbearers will be David Flanery, Gucci Flanery, Rick Simpson Jr., Joshua Chavez, Ryan Linson and Victor Linson Jr. Honorary pallbearers will be Rick Simpson Sr., Boyd Simpson and Jarrod Chavez. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made in Carmel's name to Vista Care Hospice. The family would like to thank nurse Chuck Crowninshield for his special care of Carmel. Carmel's care has been entrusted to: Daniels Family Funeral Services 3113 Carlisle NE Albuquerque, NM 87110 (505) 884-1188 Those who wish to send condolences may do so at www.danielsfuneral.com
Published on: Fri July 03, 2009