Marquita Gonzales

It is with saddened hearts that we announce the passing of a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and guiding light, Marquita Gonzales, born March 29, 1972, who passed away on September 18, 2025, surrounded by love.

Marquita was a brilliant, funny, deeply caring soul whose presence lit up every room. A devoted housewife and proud mother, she lovingly raised not only her own children and grandchildren but generations of cousins, always keeping family at the center of her life. She brought warmth to every kitchen she entered, with her love often expressed through food. Her stubborn streak was matched only by her fierce sense of justice and deep compassion for others.

Exceptionally intelligent, Marquita was accepted into Juilliard as a concert flutist, gifted with natural vibrato and remarkable talent. Though she chose a different path, her creativity and sharp mind were ever-present. She had a deep love for movies, music, and trivia, and she could recall the smallest details about celebrities, places, or scenes from classic films. She shared those tidbits with the kind of joy that made everyone smile. Her knowledge was vast, and her curiosity never faded. She worked as an administrative assistant at Durango Big Picture High School, where she helped build structure and credibility while fiercely advocating for students who had faced adversity, much like she had in her own life. She made people feel seen and supported.

Marquita was known for her honesty. Sometimes blunt, but always kind, she told the truth with humor and heart. She offered guidance, wisdom, and the kind of realness that people came to cherish. Her bravery, resilience, and unconditional love carried her through life’s challenges, and her family remained the center of her universe.

She is survived by her husband, Charles Gonzales (58); her children, Tristan Gonzales and wife Aysha (29)  and Kyra Gonzales (25); her beloved grandchildren, Sol (3) and Sequoia (6 months); Mother Debra (Rick) Taulli, Liz Hanson, Brianna (Jared) Taulli, Father Mark Romero. She was preceded in death by her first children, Jarek and Sonora Gonzales.

Services for Marquita will be held Friday, October 3, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Sacred Heart Church in Durango, with a celebration of life to follow.