Mary Ruth Sims

In Loving Memory of Mary Ruth Sims
December 14, 1930 – September 29, 2025 "A faithful servant of the Lord, devoted wife, loving mother, and cherished friend."
Obituary Mary R. Sims went to be with the Lord at the age of 94 on September 29, 2025. She was married to her cherished late husband, David Sims for 68 years. Together, they shared a lifetime of love, faith, and family.
Mary and David were the proud parents of two daughters Gracia Sims Montoya and Ruby Cowgill. Gracia's daughter and son-in-law Charisse and Rob Thomason. Ruby's husband Mark Cowgill, their son Jett Cowgill, their daughter and son-in-law Alysha and Jordan Lucero whose children are Trevor Flanagan and Maya Lucero.
As the eldest of eight children, Mary learned care and kindness from helping her devoted mother and carried that love throughout her life.
Faith and Service
As a lifelong Catholic, Mary's faith guided every aspect of her life. She was inspired by her parents, Juan Lino and Irene Martinez, starting with the little Los Martinez church near Gobernador, New Mexico.
Mary was a faithful servant to Saint Rose Blanco, Saint Mary's Bloomfield, Sacred Heart, and Saint Mary's Farmington. She served as President of the Altar Society and was an active member for many years. She helped compile a beloved Saint Mary's fundraiser cookbook, assisted with church bulletins, sponsorships, and organizing Gracia's Sacred Heart School special events. As you can see Mary and David were passionate, active members and devoted to maintaining the churches they attended. Ruby fondly remembers how much larger Saint Mary's was than Sacred Heart, "so many more pews to clean, oh my!"
Mary cherished her friendships with the Sisters of the Catholic Monastery of Our Lady in Gobernador, researching and writing articles to promote and invite visitors to the monastery. She hosted Adoration until she was no longer able and faithfully honored The Legion of Mary and the Statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe in her home. She was grateful for the members of Saint Mary's who came to her home to pray with her until the end of her life.
A Life of Service
Mary lived a life of purpose, compassion, and community involvement. She was Outstanding Chapter Girl for Epsilon Sigma Alpha Sorority. She was a member of League of Women Voters, and even served as Campaign Manager for local politicians. Registering voters, working at the polls, and encouraging civic engagement was exciting for her. She was a Brownie and Girl Scout leader, PTA member, delivered Meals on Wheels to the homebound, and visited patients in hospitals and nursing homes.
Mary was also a proud member of The Aztec Museum and instrumental in commemorating the heroism of Jose Valdez, a WWII Medal of Honor recipient and beloved Gobernador neighbor. She loved bowling, volleyball, sewing and keeping a spotless home.
After graduating from Aztec High School, she attended college in Las Vegas, New Mexico, later becoming a successful businesswoman managing real estate and ranching. She also contributed her writing talents to the Aztec Talon newspaper.
A Loving Mother and Friend
Mary formed countless lifelong friendships. Her strength, kindness, and faith drew others to her. She was both a firm disciplinarian and a compassionate protector, always upholding her beliefs with grace and dignity.
As a mother she would protect, care, and honor us. She taught us how to behave responsibly, treat others with kindness, and respect, stand up for what is right and to defend ourselves. We realize how powerful, intelligent, kind, and how hard she worked to make this world better. Her legacy of love, hard work, and faith continues through her family and all who knew her.
If you ever had the joy of tasting her biscochitos, you know, Mary only served the perfect ones. The "less-than-perfect" ones, her daughters got to eat right away!
Visitors always brought Mary and David great joy. Their home was filled with warmth, laughter, and open arms for all who came.
A Message of Gratitude
Perhaps you sent a lovely card, sat quietly in a chair, or sent flowers-if so, we noticed. Perhaps you spoke kind words or simply thought of us that day. Whatever you did to console our hearts, we thank you deeply. Each act of love brought comfort during this time of sorrow.
Celebration of Life
Saint Mary's Catholic Church – Farmington, New Mexico Monday, November 24, 2025
Rosary: 10:30 a.m. Mass: 11:00 a.m.
"Well done, good and faithful servant Enter into the joy of your Lord."
- Matthew 25:23