Viola M. Avent

1934-2024 It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Viola Aragon Montoya Avent on April 4, 2024, at the age of 89. A Funeral Mass to honor Viola's life will be held on April 23, 2024, at 10:00 am Visitation, 10:30 am Rosary, and 11:00 a.m. Mass (Father Emmanuel Izuka, presider), at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Peralta, NM. Born on May 5, 1934, Viola's life was a beautiful testament to love, resilience, and the enduring strength of family. A devoted Catholic, Viola's faith was the cornerstone of her life. She attended daily Mass, a spiritual practice she lovingly passed on to her children, ensuring her legacy of faith would continue through generations. Viola's commitment to her church community was further demonstrated by her service as a past president of the Valencia Altar Society and as a member of the Legion of Mary and her devotion to the Divine Mercy. Her faith and service were sources of strength and inspiration to all who knew her. Viola was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister-in-law, aunt, cousin, and friend. She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories to her six children, Lucie Gallegos (Dennis), Gilbert Montoya, Dulemia Espinoza, Leonard Montoya (Aleece), Urban Montoya (Emily), and Maurice Montoya. Viola's joy was multiplied by her many grandchildren, including Thomas, Gabriel, Robert, Estevan, Urban, Stephanie, Erick, and Louis, as well as her adored great-grandchildren including Michael Espinoza as pallbearer. Viola was the matriarch of a large, extended family, and she is also survived by her only living sister-in-law, Cecilia Montoya, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins who felt her love and guidance throughout their lives. Preceded in death by her parents, Juan and Dulemia Aragon, Viola also reunites with her five brothers, Alfonso (Paulita), Roldan (Carmen), Esquiel, Nicky, and Gilbert Aragon, her grandsons Dale and Adrain Montoya, her husband’s Thomas C. Montoya and Clarence Avent, and her partner Robert Vega. Their spirits await her with open arms, as she finds peace in their celestial company. A special note of gratitude is extended to her first cousin and sister-at-heart, Marcy Makarski, whose unwavering support and companionship were Viola's cheer throughout her life and comfort, especially in her final days. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to the caring staff at Carefree Living, whose kindness and dedication ensured Viola's final days were spent surrounded by love and compassion. Viola's life was a journey marked by the joy of her large family, the sorrow of losses endured with grace, and countless moments of happiness shared with those she loved. Her legacy is one of love, perseverance, faith, and the unbreakable bonds of family. As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate the remarkable life she lived and the indelible mark she leaves on our hearts. Viola Avent will be dearly missed, forever loved, and never forgotten. May her soul rest in eternal peace. Please sign Viola’s online tribute at www.romerofuneralhomenm.com Romero Funeral Home, 609 N. Main St., Belen, NM.

Viola M. Avent

May 5, 1934 - April 4, 2024