Paula Foote

“To live in the hearts of those we leave behind is to never die.” Carl Sagan

In those terrible moments when a cherished loved one’s passing is too soon and too swift, the loss is too much to bear. But shoulder the loss we must as the hole in our lives is filled with undying love, remembrances of times past, times that will not be, and an abiding respect and gratitude for an imperfect life well lived with courage and in the service and care of others.

Paula Foote of Vaughn began her flight with the angels on the 15th of June, 2024 after a courageous battle to remain with us for a longer period of time. Paula began her mortal journey on this beautiful earth the 10th of August, 1961 to her parents, Dina McDaniel of Vaughn and Buddy Foote of Ft. Sumner, who preceded her in death along with her brother, Steve Foote of Clovis. She is survived by her daughters, Miana Vinceslio of Houston, Isabella and Brian Sanchez of San Antonio, her two grandchildren, Olive and Agustin Sanchez, her sister, Pamela Cordova of Vaughn, and two brothers, Randy Turner of Vaughn and Ronnie Foote from Seattle. 

After graduating from Vaughn High School in 1980 Paula served in the U.S. military (Army) for four years and resided in Hawaii, California and Texas before settling in Vaughn to raise her daughters and be with her mom and family. She worked at the Vaughn City Hall for 28 years before retiring and she also provided humane and compassionate practical living care for her mom and a number of Vaughn residents and helped them as they moved toward their own respective flights to heaven. Paula was a tough lady and passionate about caring and being there for her immediate and extended families and friends in times of need and celebration.

Our loss is great. It is inconceivable that we could have borne the tragedy and sadness of Paula’s death without the beautiful people who provided medical, moral and loving support. They include the people of Vaughn, family, neighbors, friends, and Father Tim. Paula’s family also extends to the healthcare providers from Las Vegas, Albuquerque and Santa Rosa our most profound gratitude for the care you provide our loved ones in our hours of medical need. Like Paula, in our eyes you are all heroic. God Bless you all!

Recitation of the Most Holy Rosary will take place at 10am, Thursday, June 20, 2024 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Vaughn, NM, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 11am with Rev. Timothy Meurer as celebrant.

Burial of cremains will follow in the family plot at Evergreen Cemetery, Vaughn, NM.

Services are under the direction of Chavez Funeral Home, 923 S. Third St., Santa Rosa, NM 88435. 575-472-3369. To place an online condolence or tribute, kindly visit www.chavezfuneralhome.com.