Bennie "Nini" Gonzales

With deep love and gratitude, we honor the life of Bennie “Nini” Gonzales, who passed away on April 7, 2026, at the age of 87. She was born on August 22, 1938, in Tecolote, New Mexico, where her story began.

She was the heart of her family, a woman whose strength, care, and unwavering presence shaped generations. As a devoted Mother, Grandmother, Great-grandmother, and guiding force, she took care of everyone around her, always putting others before herself and making sure no one went without love or support.

For over 30 years, Bennie served as a dedicated Licensed Practical Nurse. Her compassion extended far beyond her patients, she was a mentor, a teacher, and an inspiration to many. She didn’t just care for people; she helped shape better nurses, sharing her knowledge, wisdom, and high standards with those fortunate enough to learn from her. She retired from the Las Vegas Medical Center, but her passion for caring for others continued as she carried on her work at Southwest Senior Care.

She was strong-willed and resilient, a woman of quiet bold strength who faced life with determination and grace. She carried a quiet power, and her words carried weight, guidance, and love. Above all, she will be remembered for the way she made people feel, cared for, capable, and deeply valued.

She is preceded in death by her parents Luis and Rafelita Gonzales, her sister Lucaria Gonzales, brother-in-law Remi Romero, and nephew Justin Smith

Bennie is survived by her son Patrick Gonzales (Bertha), her daughter Sharon Gonzales (Richard), her granddaughter Le’Andrea Gallegos (Leandro), her grandson Ted “T.J.” Esquibel (Marla), and great-granddaughter Aylynn Gallegos to whom she referred to as “Gorgeous”; her sisters Gloria Gallegos (Toby), Oralia Romero, her brother Leo Gonzales (Elaine).

We would like to give our deepest gratitude to Yvonne Saiz for her outstanding compassion and devoted care. We also appreciate Anvoi Hospice for the support and services they provided.

A Rosary will be held on April 21, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, with the Funeral Mass to follow with Father Rob Yaksich as celebrant. A funeral procession will take place afterward to Mount Calvary Cemetery. Services can be live streamed at Our Lady of Sorrows - Las Vegas, NM

Her legacy lives on in the family she nurtured, the lives she touched, and the countless nurses and caregivers who carry her lessons forward.

She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Arrangements are entrusted to and under the care of Rogers Mortuary, 600 Reynolds Avenue, Las Vegas, NM 87701. 505-425-3511.

Please visit our online website www.rogersmortuarynm.com to sign the online register book.