Ophelia Mestas

Ophelia (Maria Ophelia Olivama) Mestas, life-long resident of the actual Town of Ignacio, passed away surrounded by family.

Ophelia was born to Benedita and Crestino Casias in Ignacio in August, but as Mom would say, "My age is for me to know and you to find out!" Her family served the Town in various capacities from an Uncle who was a police officer, to her husband Alfonso and children, who started many family owned businesses. With this close tie to community, it was her wish to live her life in Ignacio, as well as end her days here.

Our mother Ophelia, was first and foremost devoted to the church and our Lord. Not only did she play the organ for the Catholic Church well over 40 years, she served as Eucharistic Minister to the sick, and mayordomo (caretaker) to the church for most of her life. Among her many contributions, she enjoyed being of service to countless priests and nuns of the parish. She exemplified her Christian values by her gift of time, energy, and devoutness. We honor you for your devotion to Christ, Mom, a saint among us.

Second, was her commitment and love to family. Not a time went by when she wasn't praying on her knees, worrying, and caring for each and every one of her family members. Truly she gave a mother's love.
Third, was education. We are proud to say our mother graduated from Fort Lewis College with honors, installed in Chapter Chi honor society (Phi Sigma Iota), a pioneer of her times. She served as a role model not only to her own children, but other women of her generation as well. Also, young female students at college turned to her for guidance and encouragement. After her graduation she taught in Utah along with her children. When her husband fell ill, they decided to return home to Ignacio. She was a maverick of her time and we were very proud of her many accomplishments. In her humble manner she never bragged, but always aimed for justice, good-will, and quiet graciousness.

As a youth, she played and sang in her brother's orchestra. While she was able to play several instruments, she focused mainly on the piano and organ. Her love of music lived in her daily with a wide repertoire of songs and hymns.

Ophelia was preceded in death by her husband Alfonso Mestas, baby son Johnny Michael Mestas, her parents, Crestino and Benedita; her brothers, Ray (Emma), Lloyd (Nancy), Tino (Delia) and (Lillian); and her sister Helen (Casie). She is survived by her children Rudy, Donnie and (Marie), Anita, Darlene, and Lillian; her grandchildren- Bernadette, Juliette (Scott), Rudi-Ann, Anthony, and her great grandchildren, as well as several nieces, nephews, and god-children.

A Memorial Mass and Rosary will be celebrated for Ophelia at 9:30 A.M. Saturday, December 21, 2019 at St. Ignatius Catholic Church. Burial will take place at the Ignacio West Cemetery immediately following mass. Lunch will follow the burial, provided by her Carmelita Sisters in Christ, whom she was a member for most of her lifetime.

Our family would like to thank our small-town community, friends, The Ignacio Fire Department, Centura Health (Cami, Suzie, Robin and Bob), CJ Pizza (Jen, Clayton, Gabby and Sage), Sky Ute Casino (Yolanda and Staff), The Carmelitas, Reverend Father Cesar, Reverend Father Cisneros, and all those we have forgotten to mention, for their support and prayers. Our love and gratitude to Margaret for her self-less acts of kindness towards our mom and family. You will be loved and missed, Mom!