Trudy Gaines

Trudy Yvette Gaines, age 59, passed from this life on June 25, 2023. Born on January 2, 1964, in Mescalero, New Mexico to Claudine Saenz. Later adopted by the late Amos and Evelyn Gaines, Trudy was blessed to be surrounded by loving parents.

A passionate student, Trudy attended Sante Fe Indian School. After graduation she continued her education by earning her degree from United Tribe in North Dakota. Ms. Gaines touched the lives of countless students in her 29 years as a teacher for the Ruidoso School System where she served as Native American Liaison.

In her spare time Trudy loved to cook, bake, read, and cheer on her beloved 49ers. She loved being the greeter and ticket seller at the Fourth of July Ceremony and welcomed everyone with a smile on her face. Trudy was known as the “Family Occasion Manager”, always planning, and preparing the family parties.  Everyone around Trudy knew they could count on her for anything. She was a giving woman, happily running errands for friends and family anytime they needed. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Trudy is preceded in death by a brother, Nedward Mangas Sr.

She is survived by her sons, Jaron Mangas, Nathan Mangas, and Jaden Garcia; a daughter Victoria Manags; brothers, Carl Mangas, Collier Mangas, and Maynard Mendez; sisters, Shelley Morgan, and Rena Mendez-Nash; numerous grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended family.