Viola Sanchez Rue

Viola Sanchez Rue, age 76, passed from this life on Friday, March 22, 2024, in Ruidoso. She was born on June 13, 1947, in Ruidoso, the daughter of Jose M. Sanchez and Estefanita Trujillo Benavidez Sanchez from Biscuit Hill, just outside of Ruidoso Downs.
 
Viola was the youngest of ten... 5 sisters and 4 brothers. Alongside them she learned, at a young age, the importance of hard work. She instilled that strong work ethic in her children as she often spoke of her humble beginnings. Working the farm life was not easy, and making ends meet without plumbing and limited electricity added to the difficulties, but she learned the value of hard work by sharing chores with her siblings. In her early years, Viola's favorite school accomplishment was being a finalist in her 7th-grade spelling bee contest, under the guidance of her teacher, Mrs. Williams. She went on to graduate proudly from Ruidoso High School as part of the Class of 1965, marking an important chapter in her life's journey. Throughout her life Viola found joy and pride in the successes of her children and grandchildren. She cherished every moment spent with her loved ones, finding solace in family gatherings and holiday events.
 
One of Viola's proudest accomplishments was getting married on March 3, 1968—a moment that brought immense joy and meaning to her life. She carried this love and devotion throughout the years, nurturing a strong and lasting bond with her family. Among Viola's interests were attending or listening to the Ruidoso Downs Horse races—a source of excitement and entertainment for her. She found pure delight in dancing at weddings and family gatherings, showing off her lively spirit and love for celebration. Her fondness for Spanish music reflected a part of her cultural heritage that she held dear. Viola will be greatly missed.
 
She was preceded in death by her parents; son, Frankie Rue; sisters, Flora Brant, Dulcinea (Nell) Jaramillo, Ruth Thompson, and Lydia Ligon; and brothers, Alex Sanchez, Willie Sanchez, Sallie Sanchez, and Alfred Sanchez.
 
Viola is survived by her husband, Sesfredo "Toby" Rue; sons, Toby (Sonya) Rue, and Alfred Rue; daughter, Valerie Rue; grandchildren, Vanessa Duran, Ariana (Miguel) Loyola, Brandon Rue, Christopher Rue, Tristan Rue and girlfriend Alina, Aaron (Anahy) Valenzuela, Sean Valenzuela and girlfriend Robyn, Christina (David) Orquiz, and Zakara Campos; great-grandchildren, Zabella Loyola, Zavier Loyola, Zekiel Loyola, Zaden Loyola, Narumi Rue, Isabela Orquiz, and David Orquiz Jr; sister, Elizabeth Wilton; and many nieces and nephews.
 
Services for Viola will be held on Saturday, April 13, 2024, beginning with a 9:30AM rosary and 10:00AM mass at St. Eleanor's Catholic Church in Ruidoso. Immediately following the mass, a graveside service will take place at St. Jude Cemetery in San Patricio. 
 
The family requests that no flowers be purchased. Donations can be made in Viola's name to Venmo- @toby-rue or Cash app $tobyrue