Mary Christine Chavez Pargas

Mary Christine (Tina) Chavez Pargas, 76, of Socorro, New Mexico, passed away peacefully at her home on August 14, 2025, surrounded by her family. She was born on October 12, 1948, in Socorro to Bernardo (Barney) and Diosintita (Josie) Chavez.

Mary lived her life with an open heart and a generous spirit. She had a gift for caring for others—always making sure everyone was fed, remembering every loved one’s birthday, and putting the needs of others before her own. When her children were young, she often went without so they could have everything they needed. While raising her children, Mary worked as a bus driver so she could share the same schedule with them. The children who rode her bus adored her, just as everyone who met her did. Known for her kindness, sweetness, and impeccable style, she was always the best-dressed at any occasion and the first to check that everyone else was doing well.

For nearly 25 years, Mary worked in the Admissions Office at New Mexico Tech. She was the first face many visitors saw, greeting each with warmth and friendliness as she welcomed them to the campus and the community. She became known and loved by countless students, families, and colleagues who had the pleasure of meeting her.

In her free time, Mary loved going to the casino with her family, where she enjoyed laughter, fun, and time spent together.

Mary’s legacy is one of love, selflessness, and care for family, friends, and community. She will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate to know her.

She is survived by her husband of nearly 59 years, Ernest Pargas; her children, Ernest Pargas Jr. and his wife, Kim, Christine Peguero and her husband, Julio, Josette Herrera and her husband, Michael, and Marissa Pargas; and her grandchildren, Kaelynn Pargas, Shaelynn Pargas, Michael Chavez II, Julio Peguero II, Melanie Giron, Austin Pargas, Justin Pargas, Alika Lucena, Kiana Jones, Cole Peguero, Rae Pargas, and Keoni Pargas, as well as 11 great-grandchildren who she loved deeply. She is also survived by her siblings, Bernardo (Bernie) Chavez Jr., Elvries (Billie) Chavez, Eduardo (Eddie) Chavez, Raymond Chavez, Bernice Vallejos, Denise Herrera, and Victor Chavez, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who loved her dearly. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Bernardo and Josie Chavez, and her beloved dog, Tinkerbell.

In accordance with her wishes, Mary did not want a funeral. The family extends heartfelt thanks for the many condolences, flowers, food, and visits they have received during this difficult time.