Photo courtesy of Baca's Funeral Chapels - Las Cruces
Las Cruces, New Mexico
Feb 2, 1955 – Jan 8, 2026
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Maria Dolores V. Duran, 70, a resident of Mesilla Park, New Mexico
Dolores was born in El Centro, California, on February 2, 1955 to Francisco and Maria Villalobos. She grew up in Anthony, NM with her 4 sisters. She graduated from Gadsden High School (’73) and New Mexico State University (’77) with a degree in Elementary Education. Her teaching career began at Anthony Elementary School and spanned many schools throughout Doña Ana County. She retired in 2015 from Las Cruces Public Schools after decades of dedicated service. Throughout her career, Mrs. Duran shaped countless young minds and left a lasting impression on generations of students. Former students would often stop her in local stores to say “Hi” and fondly reminisce about their time in her classroom.
Dolores loved time spent with her family, especially her beloved granddaughter Nevaeh. She enjoyed family trips, especially to Disneyland. It held a special place in her heart and she often said, “You can’t help but feel happy there. Walking around holding Nevaeh’s hand and going on the easier rides with her.”
She was preceded in death by her parents, Francisco and Maria Villalobos, her sisters, Maria Teresa Ramirez, Mary Helen V. Garcia, and Yolanda Friday. A woman of faith, she lived her life grounded in love, kindness, and devotion to God. She was a devoted and loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, godmother, and friend. Her faith and compassion touched all who knew her.
Dolores is survived by her loving husband of 48 years, Robert “Bobby” Duran; her sons, Robert and Joseph Duran; and her granddaughter, Nevaeh Duran. As well as her sister, Soledad V. Lopez and her extended family, friends and fellow educators who will forever cherish her memory.
Visitation for Dolores will begin at 10:00am Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at Shrine and Parish Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church located at 3600 Paroquia Street, Tortugas, New Mexico. Followed by the Holy Rosary (10:30am) and Mass (11:00am). The Rite of Committal and Interment follows at the Tortugas Catholic Cemetery, where Dolores will be laid to rest in the family plot. Please join us to celebrate the life of our beloved Maria Dolores V. Duran.
Service arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Baca’s Funeral Chapels of Las Cruces and Sunset Crematory, 527-2222. Your exclusive provider for “Veterans and Family Memorial Care.” For online condolences logon to www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com
Read MoreMy dear prima, I am so sorry to not have visited with you as much as I would have liked. We did have good times growing up in Anthony. You have always been in my thoughts and prayers and you always will be. Rest in peace prima
Larry & Rosalie Sanchez
January 19, 2026 | ALBUQUERQUE, NM
My dearest Dolores, we are so saddened by your loss. Dad and I will miss your calls as you checked up on him. Then giggle about Villalobos men. Know you will forever be in our hearts. Till we meet and see you with open arms. Vaya con Dios ❤
Ceci Villalobos
January 17, 2026 | Mesquite, NM | Family
Dolores was an amazing educator and a delightful co-worker. We enjoyed many years together at MacArthur Elementary. She will be sorely missed. Prayers, comfort and peace to her family and all who knew and loved her.
Vicki Berry
Vicki Berry
January 17, 2026 | Haddon Heights, NJ | Coworker
Mrs. Duran,
In my journey as a teacher, there have been countless moments of learning and growth, but none more profound than those shared with my mentor. As I reflect on these first years, I am filled with gratitude and admiration for the incredible guidance and support I received.
I will always cherish the great memories we've made together. One particularly special moment was when you discovered you would be my mentor teacher. Your enthusiasm and commitment were...
BLANCA MEREWETHER
January 16, 2026 | Las Cruces, NM | Friend
Prima, we're so sorry that you're not here with us, but for sure you will always live in our hearts. Holidays will not be the same, but I know, the family will always set a plate for you. I can still remember growing up in Anthony NM and living next door to you guys the fun we use to have playing together with you, your sisters and the Sanchez boys. Those were some great times.
RIP Prima
Sig/Josie Sanchez ❤
Sigiefredo & Josephine Sanchez
January 16, 2026 | Rio Rancho, NM | Family
