Natalia Perez

Natalia Perez went to be with Her Lord and entered Eternal Rest on Friday, March 22, 2024.

She was preceded in death by her parents Andres and Librada Segura; siblings Eliseo Segura, Ethelbina Martinez, Esther Segura (who was an infant) Seledonio Segura and Agnes Montoya.

Natalia is survived by her husband Eddie Perez; children: Michael, Lea, Rebecca (Jennifer); grandchildren: Alicia (Isaiah), Sofia, Francesco, and Andres. She is also survived by many brothers-in-law, sisters-n-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren, and foreign exchange parent.

Natalia was born July 7, 1944, in Sile, New Mexico. She was the youngest child of a rancher and schoolteacher. Natalia was very close to her mother and father and accepted a job upon high school graduation as a school secretary at Cochiti Elementary so she could remain at home with her parents. She saved her money to buy a new car and spoil her nieces, nephews and anyone she came across.

In 1963 at the Fiestas of San Felipe de Neri in Old Town, Albuquerque she met the love of her life, Eddie, and they married 2 years later. They were excited to start their family and had their first born two years later. Shortly after their son was born, Eddie was drafted into the Army. Natalia quit her job and became a stay-at-home mom with her son. They moved to White Sands Missile Range and lived there until Eddie left for Vietnam. Natalia moved back to Sile with her parents and awaited the safe return of her husband. Thankfully Eddie returned safely, and they decided they would live in Sile for a short time with a plan to move to Albuquerque. Natalia was excited to be in Albuquerque near most of the family. The death of her mother brought her back to Sile to help care for her father. They spent 20 years in Sile caring for her father and raising their children.

Natalia taught Catechism to many children of the community, was a member of St. Kateri Tekakwitha Committee, served as Mayordomo of the church and played the organ at church every Sunday for many years. As a member of the Tekakwitha group she had the privilege to meet Saint Pope John Paul II at a conference in AZ and receive a special blessing.  In 1988 the family moved to Albuquerque. Natalia enjoyed being surrounded by family and embraced a new Church Community.

In 1991, Natalia was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer and knew she had to put up a fight to become a Survivor. Her husband and children were at her side every minute of her fight to ensure she would become a Survivor. She knew we all needed her and if anyone could beat this, it was Natalia. Being a natural born caretaker, Natalia provided care for many children. To this day, many still fondly refer to her as “grandma” and bring their children over to meet her.  Natalia was eventually blessed with her own grandchildren who she fondly called “her babies.”  She took care of them better than any of us could have. She was their biggest fan and never missed an event. She attended basketball games, tennis matches, swim meets, dance recitals, music recitals, and graduations. She was there when they were injured, or sick and just wanted Grammy’s love. Oh, how her face would light up when they entered a room! 

Later in life, Natalia was diagnosed with dementia and her life was changed forever. Her loving husband cared for her 24/7 and as challenging as it was, he gave her the best care anyone could ask for. Their marriage vows were displayed every single day of her care and the patience Eddie displayed is profound. God truly blessed them both as they carried their cross with pride and humility. Natalia had a great Hospice Team, Yuvia and Diana, who provided for all her needs.  She also had a special caregiver during her last months, Elaine, who was a caregiving angel.

Natalia’s faith in God, contagious smile, and zest for life, will live forever in our hearts. 

Natalia's life celebration will begin with a rosary to be recited on Thursday, April 11, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at The Shrine of the Little Flower St. Therese of the Infant Jesus Catholic Church located at 3424 Fourth St NW, 87107. Mass will begin at 10:30 a.m. Reception will follow in the Parish Hall.

Pallbearers will be Lea, Rebecca, Alicia, Sofia, Francesco and Andres.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Michael, Jennifer, and  Isaiah.

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