Elizabeth Montoya

Elizabeth Montoya, born on April 20, 1931, in Mescalero, New Mexico, left this world peacefully on September 23, 2025, in Ruidoso, New Mexico. We have lost a cherished elder, a matriarch whose love and dedication forever shaped the lives of her family and friends.

Elizabeth was not just a mother; she was a connector of generations, the one who remembered everyone and who was related to whom. Her comprehensive knowledge of family ties and history made her an invaluable presence in the lives of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She loved her grandkids and great-grandkids fiercely, knew them all by name, and took immense pride in each unique individual they were.

A proud full-blooded Chiricahua Mescalero Apache woman, Elizabeth held her cultural history and lineage close to her heart. She reveled in her heritage, sharing the beauty and traditions with those fortunate enough to know her. Whether it was through horse riding, traveling, or reading books, Elizabeth embraced life with an exuberance that inspired all around her. She especially cherished attending feasts and pow-wows, where she could see family and friends amidst the vibrant cultural celebrations.

Elizabeth is survived by her sons, Rick Montoya, and John Montoya; her loving daughters, Eileen Montoya, Lisa London, Pamela Gray, and Linda Schenck and her husband, Michael. She will be missed dearly by her grandchildren: Holland Brighton, Bryar Natchez, Keith Montoya, Sonja Justus and husband Dustin, Brittney London, Kayla Bradley and her husband Felix, Ryan Montoya, Jessica Montoya, Aubree Montoya, Pierce Montoya, Chloe Montoya, Brooks Montoya, Tasha Rhoades, Ethan Tijerina, Joshua Omandam, Olympia Omandam, and Brock Omandam; and numerous great-grandchildren too many to name.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Emilio F. Montoya; her father, Jewett Tissnolthtos; her mother, Lois Smith; her brothers Lynn, Marlon, Meredith, and Cleveland "Calvin" Tissnolthtos; and her sisters Kathleen Pena and Donna Mae Tissnolthtos.

A funeral service to celebrate Elizabeth's life will be held on September 29, 2025, at 10:00 AM, at the Mescalero Reformed Church. Burial will follow at Mescalero Cemetery.

Elizabeth Montoya's spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those she loved, and her memory will be cherished for generations to come.