Yvonne Tallent

Yvonne Wilbanks Tallent passed away on September 17, 2026, at her home in the mountains of Carson NaBonal Forest. She was born on November 12, 1949, in Roswell, New Mexico, to Kenneth and BeMy Ruth Wilbanks. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Yvonne was the heart of her family, a source of strength, and a beacon of love. She built a life grounded in faith, family, and service.

Yvonne's greatest joy was her family. She married John Tallent on November 22, 1969, and together they raised four children: Shawn Tallent, Megan (Chris) Hilburn, Erin (Brandon) Walker, and Charles Tallent. Her grandchildren are Ethan Walker, Collin Sims, Hutson Hilburn, and Evie Hilburn. Her family also includes her brother Kenneth (Stephanie) Wilbanks and their children, Alex and Lauren; John's sister Marjorie (Tom) Nichta, Kristen (Brandon) Wilson and children Emily and Ben, and the many extended family members.

Yvonne was a well-read soul and a true firecracker; she stood firmly by her convictions. She was a lifelong source of counsel and comfort to others and a strong advocate for humanitarian causes, especially the well-being of children and equal rights for all. She loved the natural beauty of New Mexico without bounds. New Mexico was in her blood, the place she always called home, and now the place where she will rest forever.

Even as she devoted herself to her family, Yvonne pursued her education at Texas Tech University and the University of Houston, earning multiple degrees and certifications in social work and counseling. She dedicated her career to advocating for children. Her commitment to learning and improving was something she worked tirelessly to instill in her children.

A celebration of Yvonne's life will be held at Saint Paul's Peace Episcopal Church, 810 8th Street, Las Vegas, New Mexico, on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. A reception will follow until 1:00 p.m. All who knew and loved Yvonne are welcome to join her family in remembering her.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Yvonne's memory to causes that reflect her faith and her love of birds and gardening:

• St. Paul's Peace Church: st-pauls-peace-and-holy-trinity.mailchimpsites.com. Please note "Yvonne W. Tallent" with your gift. Donations may be mailed to PO Box 2576, Las Vegas, NM 87701. For questions, contact Reverend Jill at (505) 425-8479 or stpaulspeace@gmail.com.

• National Audubon Society: audubon.org. Donate in memory of Yvonne Wilbanks Tallent.

• Pendaries Ladies Association Chapel Windows & Flower Fund: Mail donations to Pendaries Office, Attention: PLA, PO Box 820, Rociada, NM 87742. Please note "Yvonne Wilbanks Tallent Fund."

Yvonne's love and generosity remain a guiding presence for all who knew her. She will be deeply missed