Alicia Bustamantes

Alicia Bustamantes, the matriarch of our family and a woman with a personality as bold as her love was deep, passed away Sunday, March 9, 2025, at 72. She was a force to be reckoned with—honest, hilarious, and always unapologetically herself. Her sharp observations could catch you off guard, often leaving a room full of laughter in her wake.

Born to Severo and Alvesa Jara, Alicia was the eldest of three sisters, always holding a special place in the hearts of Amelia "Meli" Hamill, Aurora "Vori" Balderaz, and her husband Fidencio Balderaz. She grew up across the street from the love of her life, Tony Bustamantes, and their love story became the stuff of legends. They built a beautiful life together until his passing in 2006, a loss from which she was never quite the same. Now, they are joyfully reunited.

She was a devoted mother to her daughter, Brenda Bustamante, and her son, Brian Bustamantes, and his wife, Brianna. She was also a proud grandmother to Miranda Granado, Brock Granado, Fox Bejerano, Brandon Bustamantes, and Archer Bustamantes. She cherished her family deeply, but if we’re being honest, her animals may have had a slight edge.

From 1980 until her retirement in 2015, Alicia worked at Alco, where she made lifelong friends and left her unmistakable mark. She loved oldies music, true crime documentaries, and a good book—especially if it involved an unsolved mystery.

Her passing leaves an unfillable void, but her stories, her laughter, and her unfiltered wisdom will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. While we grieve, we take comfort in knowing she is back in the arms of her beloved Tony, likely catching him up on all the latest news with that signature honesty of hers.

A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 3:00 PM at Harkey Funeral Home, 210 South Allen Ave, Monahans, Texas with Larry Jasso officiating.

Rest easy, Mom. We love you more than words can say.