Shaunte Marie McCuaig

Shaunte McCuaig, age 59, of Albuquerque, New Mexico, passed away surrounded by loved ones.

Shaunte was born and raised primarily in Albuquerque, where she built a life full of resilience, strength, and love. She was known for her sassy spirit, unfiltered honesty, and deep loyalty to those she cared about. Shaunte loved fiercely and supported her friends and family through anything, always ready to stand up for the people she loved.

She was especially proud of her son Matthew and her husband Mike, who were the center of her world. A fearless and determined woman, Shaunte faced life’s challenges head-on and worked incredibly hard to achieve her own version of success. She found a second family at Purcell Tire, where she worked for many years and formed lasting friendships.

Shaunte had a big personality and many passions—she loved her cats (especially Emily), watching cooking shows and America’s Got Talent, and was a huge fan of country and rock music. Cruising was one of her favorite ways to unwind, and she always looked forward to setting sail. She had a trademark wit and would often leave a room with her favorite parting line: “I’m glad you got to see me.”

She is survived by her husband, Mike Benavides Sr.; her son, Matthew Pascoe, and daughter-in-law, Carly Pascoe; her mother, Gaile McCuaig, and her partner, Marv Enerson; her great-grandmother, Gaile Swartz; her mother-in-law, Berna Krahn; Mike’s son, Mikey Benavides Jr.; her Aunt Janet and Uncle Jack Dale; and many brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends who loved her dearly.

Shaunte was preceded in death by her father, Jim Ball, and her father-in-law, Fred Krahn.

A memorial service to honor Shaunte’s life will be held Friday at 3:00 p.m. at Trujillo Funeral Home, 110 Alvarado Drive SE, Albuquerque, NM 87108.

Shaunte will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her strength, heart, humor, and unforgettable presence.