Cecilia Y. Rivera

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Cecilia Rivera, who left us peacefully on Monday, January 5, 2026, at her home near Tucumcari, New Mexico. A rosary will be recited on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at 10:15 a.m. at St. Anne's Catholic Church, 306 W. High St., Tucumcari, NM 88401, with Reverend Cameron Degani officiating. Burial will take place following the Mass, at 4161 Cemetery Rd., Tucumcari, NM 88401. All of her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Cecilia was born on May 8, 1962, in Tucumcari, New Mexico, to Horacio Garcia and Margaret (Real-Jimenez) Garcia. On February 14, 1981, she married James Rivera Sr. in Tucumcari. Cecilia was a graduate of Tucumcari High School. She worked for several years at ALCO Discount Store before pursuing college education to become a pharmacy technician. She then worked for 11 years at Wellborn Pharmacy and four years at Bob's Budget Pharmacy.

Cecilia loved gatherings and enjoyed joking, laughing, and dancing with her friends and family. She was a devoted music lover, especially fond of Stevie Nicks. Christmas held a special place in her heart, and she made sure every loved one received a holiday card each year. She was a faithful member of St. Anne's Catholic Church and held a deep, unwavering faith. Full of hope and determination, Cecilia was known for her strong will-stubborn at times-but above all for her love of life, which she shared freely through her warm smile. She was well known and dearly loved throughout the Tucumcari community. Her love and guidance will be deeply missed.

Cecilia is survived by her father, Horacio Garcia; her two sons, James (Tonja) Rivera Jr. and Christopher Rivera (Darlene Valdez); two brothers, Steven Garcia and Tony (Kim) Garcia; one sister, Christina (Rick) Brundrette; numerous nieces and nephews; six grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren, all of whom she held close to her heart.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Margaret Garcia, whom she loved deeply and cherished dearly.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Muffley Funeral Home, www.muffleyfuneralhome.com, (575) 762-4435.