Ciriña A. Grady

Ciriña was born in her family home in Lincoln, New Mexico to Ysabel T Aldaz and Ramonsita Gallegos Aldaz. She was the youngest of her siblings, and is preceded in death by her sisters Lola, Lila, and Jane, and her brothers Sostenes and Tommy and her son and youngest child, Thomas.

She is survived by her husband Sherman, her daughter Germaine, and by 6 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren, and by many members of extended family who love and miss her dearly.

Ciriña graduated Capitan High School in 1957 and married her husband of 66 years the following December. They had their children in '58 and 59', and purchased their first home in 1960.

In 1981 they moved to Truth or Consequences, NM., and in '84 Ciriña gave her life to the Lord. She stayed steadfast in her faith for the remainder of her life. She and her husband ministered across a number of US states and from their Albuquerque home in recent years.

Ciriña was a skilled craftsperson and a diligent worker. In youth she used her talents as a seamstress to make her own clothing. Later, she and Sherman founded an upholstery business by which they provided for their family. This enterprise was a tremendous success, and in '96 they were commissioned to furnish the entire Albuquerque International Sunport with leather-covered cushions for the hallways and at the gates. This job provided the means for their retirement, and some of the cushions survive heavy usage and remain in service almost 30 years later at our Sunport.

She was a talented artist and has left her family an absolute treasure trove of her works: from landscapes, still-lifes, and the occasional portrait done in oil, to expertly-crafted, heirloom needlepoint Christmas stockings, which she made and gave as treasured gifts to her family members.

She instilled a strong work ethic in her descendants which persists to this day. She believed wholeheartedly in the bonds created by family, and she is known for her devotion, deep love, and forgiveness.

The loss of her son at the young age of 54 was particularly devastating. Her survivors rejoice in their reunion, and in the end of her pain. May she live on forever in our hearts and memories.

Until we meet again, Nana. We love you.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Ciriña's memory to Joy Junction.