Rosalie Serna Rael passed away peacefully at her home in Silver City, NM, on Friday, Nov. 22, 2024 surrounded by loved ones in her final days. She left a legacy of warmth and compassion that will endure for generations.

Born on Nov. 3, 1940, in Reserve, NM, to Pablo and Lucia Serna, Rosalie was the youngest of eight children. At just 12 years old, she took on the role of caretaker for her family, a responsibility she embraced with unwavering dedication. Throughout her life, she created a home filled with love, laughter, and the mouthwatering aroma of her cooking. Visitors were greeted with a hot meal and freshly made tortillas before they even had a chance to protest, always followed by dessert.

In addition to building a loving home, Rosalie was a valued employee of Western New Mexico University for over 20 years, and she was committed to her community. For many years she was an active member of the Silver City Woman's Club, the Moose Lodge, the Elks Lodge, the Catholic church, and frequently volunteered during elections.

Rosalie's kindness and generosity were boundless. She was always ready to help others, her nurturing spirit extending to everyone she met. She poured her love into her family, spoiling her children, grandchildren, and even their friends and animals with thoughtful gestures and goodies.

Known for her impeccable style, Rosalie was rarely seen without her signature lipstick, high heels, her concho belt, and her beautiful dimpled smile. Beneath her polished appearance, she had a playful, mischievous side and a sharp sense of humor that brought joy to all around her. She faced life's challenges, including the devastating loss of two of her children with remarkable resilience, meeting every day with grace and determination. Rosalie's beauty radiated from within, touching the lives of all who knew her. Her memory lives on in the hearts of her loved ones, the meals she prepared with love, and the laughter she inspired in her family and friends.

She will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all who were fortunate enough to share in her extraordinary life.

Rosalie is survived by her husband of 65 years, Robert; one brother, Patricio Serna (Eloise); and two children, Rosalyn Rael (Alex Janevski), and Robert Rael Jr. (Antoinette). She is also survived by 5 grandchildren, Elia, Alexandria, Patrick, Malcolm, and Tami, as well as 4 great grandchildren, David, Raeleigh, Devin, and DeMarcus, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; two children, Lorissa and Patrick; five sisters, and one brother.

The funeral mass will take place on Saturday, November 30, 2024 at 10:00am at Santo Niño Catholic Church in Aragon, NM, followed by interment at the Aragon Cemetery, and then a reception will follow at the Reserve Community Center in Reserve, NM.

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