Loretta Yvonne Mercadante

Yvonne Mercadante, a beloved member of the Clovis, New Mexico community, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2025, at the age of 92. Born on September 18, 1933, in Forrest, New Mexico, Yvonne lived a life filled with grace, elegance, poise, kindness, and a deep passion for the arts and hospitality.

A proud graduate of Forrest High School, Class of 1951, Yvonne embodied a spirit of joy and creativity that touched the lives of everyone she met. Her love for dance and the arts inspired many, and she showcased her talents as an accomplished oil painter. With an eye for beauty, she enjoyed dressing to the nines, bringing elegance and charm to every occasion. Yvonne's career path included many roles that mirrored her generous spirit. She dedicated years to Kenner's Drug Store and Holmberg Jewelry and later found joy as a pharmacy technician. Her warm smile and welcoming demeanor flourished during her time as a hostess in customer service at Ruidoso Downs, where she made countless connections and friendships. A devoted member of the 21st Church of Christ, Yvonne was known for her giving nature and her love for reading, often finding solace in the pages of her favorite books.

Her legacy continues through her daughter, LaRonda Holmberg; her sons, David Smith (Teri), and Larry Smith; her sister, Bertie Laverne Snipes; her grandchildren, Chris Stettheimer, David Bryan Smith and family, Derrick Smith and family, and Katie McEntyre and family, all of whom carry her cherished values and memories forward. A special friend, Quaylene Hardin Parkey, also was very dear to her. She also leaves behind to cherish her memory several extended family members and lots of friends.

Yvonne is preceded by death by her son, Guy Smith; parents, James Escar and Blanche (Christesson) Burton; a brother, Billy Burton, who passed at the age of 7; sisters and brothers-in-law, Emmie Love (Mason), Angela Faye (Vernon), and Ellen Elizabeth Burton, and brother-in-law Ken Lindsay.

Yvonne's family expresses heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate team at Interim Hospice for their care and support during her final days. 

Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 19, 2025, from 3 to 5 PM at Steed Todd Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held on Monday, October 20, 2025, at 10:00 am, at 21st Church of Christ in Clovis, New Mexico. After the church serves the family a meal, burial will be in Melrose Cemetery, Melrose, New Mexico. Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Yvonne's life and share their cherished memories. 

Yvonne will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love, creativity, and generosity will forever remain in our hearts.