Stella Marquez passed away peacefully on February 10, 2026, with family by her side, just days before her 93rd birthday. A devoted mother, wife, grandmother, and friend, Stella will be lovingly remembered for her poise, elegance, and gracious spirit.

She was born as Stella Alvarez on February 21, 1933, in Las Cruces, New Mexico and was raised by Juanita Soto Sanchez and her husband Frank with sisters Marie and Arlene Sanchez. She graduated from Las Cruces High School and went on to attend New Mexico State University, where she majored in Home Economics, which served her well in a life dedicated to homemaking and creating comfort and love within the many homes she established for her family over the years.

In 1954, Stella married Leo Marquez. For 33 years, she was integral to the success they achieved in Leo's Air Force career, traveling the world and forming enduring friendships. Through every relocation and challenge, Stella remained steadfast-an extraordinary homemaker, a devoted mother, and a gracious officer's wife. In 1987, Lt. General (retired) and Mrs. Leo Marquez returned to New Mexico for the remainder of their years, enjoying friends, family and her community.

Stella was the proud mother of five children and beloved grandmother to four granddaughters. Beyond her family, Stella's commitment to helping others was shown by volunteering in support of military families and women in need.

Stella was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, aunts and uncles, and her sisters. She is survived by her children Paula Hewitt, Patricia Knighten (Allan), Phillip Marquez (Susan), Leo David Marquez, and Diana Marquez, as well as her four beloved granddaughters, Alisa Hewitt Stevens (Jim), Brittanae Brown (David), Adrienne Knighten Sedillo (Diego), Marisa Marquez, She also leaves behind many cousins, nieces and nephews, extended family members and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Services to honor and celebrate Stella's life will be in Albuquerque, with a Rosary on February 25 at 6:00 pm at FRENCH Lomas. Funeral Mass on February 26, at 1:30 p.m. at John XXIII Catholic Community (4831 Tramway Ridge Drive NE), followed by a reception. A private interment will be at Santa Fe National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in her name to the Airman's Attic at Kirtland Air Force Base. The Airman's Attic is a volunteer‑run, donation‑based resource located on many US Air Force bases, serving as a vital resource to help military members and their families.

A life well lived, her legacy of love, laughter, and grace will forever live in the hearts of those who love her.