Carmel C. Rivera

Rivera - Carmel C. Rivera, 86, was called home to the Lord on Tuesday, June 30, 2009. Carmel was born in Tererro, New Mexico to Encarnacion and Ignacita (Cortez) Rivera. Carmel served her country proudly in the Women's Army Air Corps, from 1941-1942. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend and will be missed by all who knew and loved her. Carmel was a very strong and independent woman, her greatest wish was not to out live her children and that wish was fulfilled. Carmel was preceded in death by her parents, brother Albert Rivera Sr. and granddaughter Shannen Lynn Blakeney. She is survived by her loving children Patsy Blakeney and husband Gene, Boyd Simpson, Shirley Kelley and husband Joe, Rick Simpson, Grandson "Gucci" Flanery Jr., Rhea Chavez and husband Ronnie, Lela Heineken and husband Russell, Lila Linson, and David Flanery and wife Elizabeth, 22 grandchildren and 46 great-grandchildren. Also surviving brother John C. Rivera and wife LeNeil and sister Ramona Lawson and husband Boyd. Pallbearers will be David Flanery, Gucci Flanery, Rick Simpson Jr., Joshua Chavez, Ryan Linson and Victor Linson Jr. Honorary pallbearers will be Rick Simpson Sr., Boyd Simpson and Jarrod Chavez. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made in Carmel's name to Vista Care Hospice. The family would like to thank Nurse Chuck Crowninshield for his special care of Carmel. Carmel's care has been entrusted to: Daniels Family Funeral Services 3113 Carlisle NE Albuquerque, NM 87110 (505) 884-1188