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Judy Basham Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Judy Basham
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Bryon Encinias
October 31, 2009
I am so sorry to hear of Judy's passing. My father, Gilbert always spoke so highly of her.
In sympathy,
Bryon Encinias
Katherine Basham
June 22, 2009
Eulogy for Judy Encinias Basham
I can think of no one who is better described by the John Lennon lyrics “to know her is to love her.” Everyone who knew Judy, loved Judy. Not only people who knew her most of her life, but also people who knew her for a relatively short time.
Judy was such a powerful presence in life.
Judy was a powerful presence in her high school. She was the president of the Future Homemakers Association, a member of the Future Teachers of America, her junior class secretary, a cheerleader, and was named a Girls’ State delegate.
Judy was a powerful presence in Santa Fe and among her many friends. Judy worked for the Court of Appeals then became Special Assistant to First Lady Alice King. She was State Personnel Director under Governors Toney Anaya and Bruce King. After retirement, she worked for Governor Bill Richardson when he was Congressman of the 3rd Congressional District. Presently, she was employed by Butch Maki and Associates and has worked annually since 2005 for Speaker of the House, Ben Lujan during the New Mexico Legislative Sessions. In 1992, Judy received one of the Governor’s Awards from the Commission on the Status of Women honoring distinguished women from New Mexico. Among her friends, Judy was the ringleader, ordering Molly to gather up the girls for a get-together. Judy always took the time to cultivate her friendships.
Judy was a powerful presence in her siblings’ lives. She was a second mother to Leon, Raulie, Sandy and Benito, not only when they were small but also when they were adults with families of their own. She was the one who held the family celebrations. She was more of a grandmother to their children than she was an aunt, and the youngest generation, Nicholas, Jacob, Iliana, Xavier, Adelina, Hannah and Guy, will never truly appreciate the loss they suffered in losing Judy even though their parents will strive to keep Judy alive in their memories.
Judy was a powerful presence in her children’s lives- Donna, also called Espy, and Mark. Espy and Mark are proud of their mother’s accomplishments as a Hispanic woman in the 1970s, 80s, 90s and present day. But they will tell you her greatest legacy is that she was a wonderful and loving mother. Judy was their rock. She was the one they turned to in times of trouble. Both Espy and Mark talked of wanting to call Judy and tell her about the accident their mother was in-- they felt the urge to phone her and give her updates on their mother's condition—they wanted to lean on Judy in that difficult time. It would take them a second to realize they couldn’t do that because it was Judy in that hospital bed.
Judy was a powerful presence in her grandchildren’s lives- Ryan, Taylor, Jordan, Mack and Austin. I’d like to share some of her grandchildren’s letters. The first is a letter from Ryan to Judy in 2003. “Dear Grandma, I love you so much, you are always there to help me with everything. You’re my number one fan! I cannot wait to see you and grandpa. I’m acting very well at home. I’m trying hard not to talk back! Tell Grandpa I love him and miss him. Tell him that I’m following all of my dreams.”
Taylor wrote to Judy in 2006. “I love you so so much! Thanks for everything that you do for me. Not just buying me stuff, but for loving me and laughing at all the things I say! Even if you don’t think that it is funny! I’m so blessed to have a Grandma like you. I love you and I can’t tell you that enough.”
Jordan wrote to Judy after visiting her at UNMH ICU on Monday May 25th. The envelope stated “For Judy, for when she’s better and can read this.” “Dear Grandma, I decided to write you this letter after leaving you at the hospital today at about 6 PM. You seemed so out of it and nothing seemed right. Grandma, you know as well as us grandchildren do, that you are such a wonderful grandmother. You’re the type that does everything for us. Grandma, your personality and strength make you such a great fighter. Grandma I need you in my life. You are my rock, my friend, mentor, idol; you mean everything to me. I know you’ll read this one day and laugh because Jordan is being her typical dramatic self, but Grandma we all need you, the entire family needs you. You’re the reason we see each other every year. You are the glue in this family that keeps us together. I love you and I can’t wait till you get through this.”
Mack, who is on a pre-planned class trip to Costa Rica, wrote a poem for Judy after she passed away. “Grandmother, she loved like a saint, she cared as a mother, she spoiled us as a grandmother, she worked as a Basham, she was loyal as a sister, she lived as a legend.”
In February of this year, Austin turned in a school assignment to write about “the person in his life who acts the most like a saint.” It was about Judy. Austin wrote, “I believe my Grandmother, Judy Basham, is the person who acts the most like a saint in my life. She is very giving. For example, she gives a lot of food to the Carmelites and to St. Elizabeth’s homeless shelter. She goes to church every Wednesday and Sunday. But sometimes she goes to church on some other days in addition to Wednesday and Sunday. She also sometimes takes my brother, sister and me to a small chapel where you can go in and pray and stay there as long as you want. In addition, she was the sponsor for my sister when she was getting confirmed. She has never missed any of my big moments whether it is in or out of the church.”
We only had Judy with us for seventy years.
She came into this world on a cold March day in 1939. And we can only imagine, because we don’t have dear Priscilla to tell us so, that Judy came into this world already possessing the one quality that we can all agree she possessed throughout her life—strength.
We all told her she had it when Austin passed away—Judy, you’re strong, you’ll get through this. And she did.
A lot of us told her she had it when she was in the hospital—Judy, you’re strong, you’ll make it through this. And she did. Until the day she didn’t. And on that day, she let go, and she walked into Austin’s arms, and we can all envision him holding her tight and saying “Judy, it’s okay, you don’t have to be strong anymore.” And she went with him. And now we have to be strong. We have to get through this, and we will.
Katy Brown
June 12, 2009
I attended Highlands University with Austin and Judy. They were a wonderful couple, way back in 1962. Though most of us lost track of each other, it appears Judy and Austin continued to enrich their community and family. God bless them.
Wilfred & Virginia Quintana
June 7, 2009
Our prayers and condolences to Judy's family. We were shocked. She was a wonderful person, and dearly loved.
Patrick Smith Park - Thank You Picnic from Congresman Lujan
Ernesto B Baca
June 4, 2009
She was always smiling --- it will be missed.
Mona and David Varela
June 4, 2009
I knew of Judy many years ago when my sister and my mother-in-law worked at SPO. I met Judy years later, but felt like I knew her because anyone who mentioned her name spoke so fondly of her. And they were right. She treated me as though we had been friends forever. She wasn't stingy with hugs and I loved her laugh. I will miss her during the Legislature and I'm sure I'll think of her often...with fondness. God bless you Judy and be happy with Austin. Deepest condolences to the family.
Doug Basham
June 4, 2009
Mark. Espy. and family- We send our love, thoughts and prayers. Judy was a very special member of the family. She was especially revered by WV Bashams for all her kindness and thoughtfulness. She will never be forgotten.
We love you all!
Doug, Linda and Marc Basham
Patty Kelly
June 3, 2009
Please know that you all are in our prayers and hearts. We love Aunt Judy and her smile and laughter were so contagious when she was around! What a blessing it has been to have her in our lives.
Remember the good things, talk about the funny things and stay close to each other.
We love you all
Patty, Jason and Gwendolyn
ELEANOR KIDD-LOCKLEAR
June 3, 2009
I AM A CLASSMATE OF JUDYS HUSBAND, AUSTIN, AND FRIENDS OF THE BASHAM FAMILY HERE IN WEST VIRGINIA. I HAVE HEARD NOTHING BUT THE BEST ABOUT JUDY AND MY HEARTFELT SYMPATHY GO OUT TO THE ENTIRE FAMILY.
Audrey Sisneros
June 2, 2009
My deepest Sympathies to the family of a wonderful woman.
Judy gave me my first job in State Government & after 23 years I am still forever grateful. And she was still a great friend. I will always have a great respect for her for always trying to help and do the right thing.She will be missed.
Vaya con Dios Judy
A.Joseph Alarid
June 2, 2009
My deepest sympathy to the whole family,specially Mark and Sandy.I will always remember Judy as one of those whose dedication and friendship,and love of New Mexico knew no bounds.
Ida Martinez
June 2, 2009
I send my sincere condolences on the loss of a wonderful person. She always made me smile. Judy will be missed dearly.May the dear lord comfort you.
Nancy Landskroener
June 2, 2009
Benito
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Remember to relish Judy's life in all the times to come.
Pat Padilla
June 2, 2009
My deepest condolences, I just learned of this about a half hour ago. I am very sorry. Judy was a beautiful lady, professional woman and a good person. God bless you and your family.
Cousin Libby Flanagan
June 2, 2009
Mark & Espy, we send our sincere condolences on the loss of your wonderful mother. We have sweet memories of Judy and will never forget her fun-loving spirit. Our love and prayers are with you today as you celebrate the life of a beautiful mother, grandmother, sister and friend.
Buddy Abeyta
June 2, 2009
Our deepest condolences.. We played many an event where Judy was present... You will be missed...
-Sol Fire
Helen Laura Lopez
June 2, 2009
Judy was a class act in politics and that's why people loved her so much. She was so vibrant, so full of life. I remember her singing Volver along with the band in full voice at Minnie's birthday party. Vaya con Dios Judy.
Edward Cassidy
June 2, 2009
I came to know Judy when I was a member of the State Personnel Board. Earlier I met her while assisting in a study of pay equity in State Government. Always, she was gracious and very politically astute. I really respected her as the best example of a government ermployee who really tried to do the right things.
Milissa Ross
June 1, 2009
Marlo and Family,
Our deepest sympathy on the loss of such a great lady. May your heart be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Milissa Ross and Gene Baca
The 4 Amigas
June 1, 2009
Donna,
Your mother was such a beautiful, spiritual and vibrant person who clearly enjoyed life. Through our friendship, we have been truly blessed to have been given the opportunity to meet such an inspiring woman. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
We love you!
Cyndi, Jolynn, Sharon and Yvette
(4 Amigas)
Joella Apodaca
June 1, 2009
Cassandra, I was deeply saddened to hear about the loss of your sister. The loss of a big sister is a pain that we both now share. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. Please extend my regards to your family.
Dominico, Darlene and Family
June 1, 2009
Tia Judy, thank you for all the hugs and kisses, all the wonderful memories, your endless generosity, and your love. We will miss you and you will always be in our prayers. Love,
Trish Warwick
June 1, 2009
Mark, Espy, and All Family -
I am so very sorry that life without this beautiful person will be hard for each of you. Take comfort and remember that Judy will always be here . . . all around you! You can share your thoughts, your dreams and the beauty of each day with her!
Rejoice that she was called home to our Father, and He has led her back to Austin's side once again. She is truly happy!
Judy Judy -
Thank you for your love! You will never need a 'pigment check' again! lol (It was always beautiful anyway, my dear!) I will miss you so, so much! I smile knowing where you are . . . . .
Kelly Basham-Brogan
June 1, 2009
Mark, Espy and Family I am so sorry that you have to go through this again so soon and again so unexpected. You guys stick close and tell funny stories about Uncle Austin and Aunt Judy. It really seems to help us get through our loss of Dad. We loved them both so much and will miss them terribly. I pray everyday for you. Love You.
Marilyn Hill
June 1, 2009
Basham and Encinias Families:
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Casandra, please know you are in my thoughts. May God grant the family peace and comfort you during this difficult time. I will always remember Judy's smile and kindness.
Della Encinias & Family
June 1, 2009
Mark, Espy & Family,
My prayers are with you all. Be strong and may God be with you. I'm so sorry I can't be with you at this time, since currently I'm in the state of Tennessee, but I send you all my love.
Chris, Michelle & Julie
June 1, 2009
Casandra & Family,
We are so sorry to hear that you lost somone so dear and close to your hearts. We will keep you all in our prayers.
Love,
Roberta Baca and the Baca family
June 1, 2009
My prayers and my heart go out to you. Your mother was a political icon in New Mexico and an otherwise terrific lady. She will be sorely missed.
Sonya Garcia-Snyder
June 1, 2009
Espy, Mark and Family,
Our deepest sympathy on the loss of your wonderful mother. I had recently worked with Judy during the legislative session and we laughed about the old times at the Casa Solana pool. Judy was a wonderful, fun, loving person. She will be missed by many. May your memories bring you comfort.
Sonya, Pat and Boys
June 1, 2009
Judy, you were such a special friend and we had so many good times with you and Austin. Thank you very much for the special memories. Our family also thank you very much for everything. Paschall and RoseMary Wickard, Rio Rancho
Patsy Campbell
June 1, 2009
It's hard to lose someone you love, but even harder still when that person is your moher, whose place no one can fill. Love to all of you. The last time I saw Judy was on the banks of the Greenbrier River. Patsy and Clyde
shachar shilo
June 1, 2009
to auer beloved sisterinlow-marlo.we are very sorry for your lost.
and we send you auer love and simpthy.
shachar orna linor ashley and yeonatan shilo
shlom and natela michaeli
rafi and mirav michaeli
israel ..
Sharon Garcia
June 1, 2009
Judy was deeply loved by many. You were all so lucky to have such a vibrant, energetic and loving woman in your lives. Words cannot heal the pain of losing someone so dear! But please know, our deepest prayers and wishes are always with you and your family.
Love,
The Garcia Family
(Henry, Sharon, Miranda and Aidan)
John and Bianca
June 1, 2009
A tragic loss for New Mexico. Judy, your smile, laughter, wit and those great bear hugs will be truly missed. Our blessings and love to your family. May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
John Wertheim and Bianca Ortiz Wertheim
Roberta Beaumont
June 1, 2009
Dear Donna and Mark,
We are so sorry for your loss. Your Mother was such a special person, full of kindness, laughter and love. God is full of happiness now with Judy by his side.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you today and always.
~ Beaumont Family, Arcadia, California
Darla Aiken
June 1, 2009
My deepest condolences on the loss of your loved one. I met Judy several years ago while working on the Governors Campaign I knew from the moment I met her she was an Angel. She was alway full of love and laughter, and never judged anybody. I will miss her smiling face as well as her humor. The wonderful memories you have of her will get you through these roughest times God Bless You All.
Celina Garcia
June 1, 2009
Deepest condolences to all the family.
Judy will always be with us in our hearts and memories.
May you find comfort in the days and weeks to come. I'll always remember her dancing the polka, nobody could keep up with Judy.
Que Dios los Bendiga.
Celina R. Garcia
Ronald R Beserra
June 1, 2009
My prayers and love are with you and your family and your great journey to a land where there is no pain..
Barbara Rivera
June 1, 2009
My deepest condolences to all of Judy's family. May you find comfort in your faith and in all those who mourn with you. You are all in my prayers.
Leonora Lopez
June 1, 2009
To the Basham-Encinias family: God bless and take care of you in your time of great loss. Judy will be missed, she was a wonderful person.
Jeff Gulko
June 1, 2009
I am deeply saddened to hear of your loss. While I am not a New Mexican, I was blessed to have the opportunity to spend a few weeks with Judy in Iowa, New Hampshire and Denver during the campaign last year and will always remember the jokes, laughter and good times we shared during a very cold, and I mean very cold December in Des Moines. Judy was so caring and always put others before herself. The world today is definitely a far lesser place without her however her spirit, caring and love live in all of us that knew her.
John L. Jones
June 1, 2009
Judy and Austin touched more lives than they every knew. We're better for their having been with us, and a little less with their passing. God blessed Judy - may he continue to bless her family.
Dough Basham
June 1, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Bryon Paez
May 31, 2009
Ms. Judy
Who would have thought that a classmate of my father's would become a DEAR friend. I will never forget our road trip to NH, the convention in Denver, the presidential caucus in Iowa, or the many conversations we had about 'life'. I Thank God for allowing me to share a few years with you...
You will be missed....
Diane Garcia-Briggs
May 31, 2009
Espy, I cannot possible understand what you must be feeling. I know that it's impossible to lift the sorrow and grief and only time and beautiful memories will help. I know that you and your family are surrounded by love and support because you mom is loved by so many people. Please know that I too am here for you, I will miss your mom, she always had a hug for me.
Our deepest condolences to you and your family
Diane,Tom and family
Judy and Bill Hendley
William & Virginia Hendley
May 31, 2009
May 31, 2009
Judy was a good friend to both of us and we will always remember her. Her passing was such a loss. Our hearts go out to her family and friends.
Doug Basham
May 31, 2009
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Betty Basham
May 31, 2009
Mark & Espy and grandchildren,
I will miss your mother very much and will be praying for you. Her sweet spirit will always be remembered by me. I loved her very much.
Aunt Betty
Gary Basham
May 31, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Diana Baasham
May 31, 2009
MARK AND ESPY aunt judy wa a wonderful person to be aroud and will missed all and our prayers our with you
Jeff Varela
May 31, 2009
"Mi Patrona" Judy will be dearly missed by many of us who worked for, with and along side her when she was State Personnel Director. Some of the most satisfying and fun years of my public service were working for Judy at SPO. Judy created a "family" atmostphere and kept us all in-line, not by force or intimidation, but with love, compassion and her commitment to do what was best for state employees!
Judy was truly my mentor and was one of the first people to congratulate me when I was appointed SPO Director in 2003. She made me feel like one of her students and one of her children; she always kept an eye on me as I finished my state govt. career! I will always cherish the SPO days with her, Gip Brown, Jerry Rael, Bob Sigmund, Phyllis Rodriguez, and the many personnel managers and administrators she influenced and touched. We were truly a family and team! Our deepest condolences to Mark, Donna and the entire Basham and Encinias families! We will never forget what Judy did for me, my family and for state government!
Jeff Varela, Annette and the Varela Family
Marsha Koff
May 31, 2009
Thinking of you at this very sad time. I will be in touch when you get back to Las Cruces. With my love and prayers to all of you.
Sue and Eddie Groth
May 31, 2009
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Susie Varela Gonzalez
May 31, 2009
My deepest sympathy to Judy's family. I was shocked and sadden when I read about her passing. I enjoyed working with Judy on the campaign trail for Gov. King. She will truly be missed by all. Rest in peace Judy.
matthew ortiz
May 31, 2009
mark, our family mourns with your family's loss. it was shocking to hear of her passing. we will pray for you and for your family to get through the grief you are feeling. --michele jacquez-ortiz and matthew ortiz
ivan basham
May 31, 2009
a sorryfull shock was a woderful person and sister in law i wiil miss her
Lynn Gary
May 31, 2009
I will miss Judy's sense of humor and her smile. Great memories of shared time in Governor King's office.
I wish to the family strength, understanding, and acceptance. And know you can count on us for a shoulder to lean on, and remembering how special dear Judy was, and IS.
Susan Basham
May 31, 2009
Mark and Espy,
My heart breaks for you. Aunt Judy had such a spirit about her that you couldn't help but catch it when she was around. She could light up a room. Please know that you both and your families are in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Susan
Alfonso & Solie Martinez
May 31, 2009
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Michele Catanach
May 31, 2009
Judy...You were one of the most beautiful women. You will be so badly missed.
May 31, 2009
Judy,
To such a wonderful person, you will be missed dearly. Thank you for the wonderful words now during my illness, I will always cherish them. May God take care of you now.
Love Always,
~Carla
Patsy Trujillo
May 31, 2009
My dearest Judy, my heart is broken. I will miss you so much. Our 6:00am phone calls, going to pilate class, mass on Saturdays at the Cathedral, celebrating our birthdays wearing our crowns at The Shed with Marie, Conny, Linda, Teresa, Minnie, and Jane at The Shed or at your house. You taught me to re-affirm my faith in God. I love you Judy, vaya con Dios.
Marilyn & Walt Reed
May 31, 2009
Heaven has gained a very special person. We will certainly miss our dear friend of so many years, and treasure the memories of the good times we shared. May God give the family the strength to deal with its loss.
Sheri Wald
May 30, 2009
Marlo and family:
I am sorry for your loss. May your happy memories sustain the strength you need to move forward and always remember your loved one.
Marlo
May 30, 2009
To my beloved Aunt and God Mother,
You will be missed dearly by many.
Love,
Your niece and God Daugher
Judy, sister Sandy, brother Benito and grand-niece Hannah
May 30, 2009
Judy and sister Sandy (Christmas 2008)
May 30, 2009
Christmas 2008
May 30, 2009
May 30, 2009
Dancing on a boat in Cabo
May 30, 2009
Judy and her grandkids
May 30, 2009
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