Rosalie B. Maese, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on December 4, 2025, surrounded by love and faith. Born on May 16, 1929, in Las Cruces, New Mexico, Rosalie was raised on her family farm in Doña Ana, New Mexico, and lived a life marked by generosity and an open heart that welcomed all who crossed her threshold.
A lifelong Catholic, Rosalie, or “Ma” as she was known to her family, held a deep devotion to our Blessed Mother Mary and the Holy Rosary, finding strength, comfort, and guidance in her faith. More than a mother to her four children, Rosalie became a mother figure to countless friends, neighbors, and anyone blessed enough to know her.
Rosalie is survived by her children, Patsy Maese Olivas, Debra Maese (Wayne Frye), Rita Maese Noaker (Noah), and Charles Edward Maese (Corina). She leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Jennifer Bly (Adam), Becky Hale (Mick), Angela Olivas, Sean M. Momsen (Sarah Williams), Teresa Olivas, Albert Lopez, Charles J. Maese (Kylie), Eric S. Maese, and Melissa Portillo. She is also survived by her great-grandchildren, who brought her immense joy: Elizabeth Buck (Cole), Ayva Hale, and Annabelle Hale. In addition, she is survived by dozens of beloved nieces and nephews who each held a special place in her heart.
Rosalie is preceded in death by her loving husband, Edward M. Maese; her parents, George C. Banegas and Angelita A. Banegas; her eight brothers, George, James, Raymond, Ernest, Richard, Rudy, Arthur, and Henry; and her two sisters, Ernestina Lacey (Ocie) and Angelita O’Rourke (Peter).
The family extends their deepest gratitude to Ma’s “chaparrita,” Crystal Hidalgo, who cared for Rosalie with extraordinary love and tenderness for nearly two years. Their bond became that of mother and daughter, a relationship treasured by both. Special thanks to Noemi Phillips, CNA, whose compassion and care brought Rosalie comfort for many months. The family is profoundly grateful to Frank Montes, RN, and the nurses and staff of TLC Hospice for their continued support and kindness.
The Rosary will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 3729 Hueco Ave., El Paso, Texas 79903, on December 19, 2025, at 12:00 p.m., followed by the Mass at 12:30 p.m. Interment will take place at Fort Bliss National Cemetery. Pallbearers are John Banegas, Ron Banegas, Mick Hale, Charles J. Maese, Sean Momsen, and Bernie Olivas.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation be made in Rosalie's honor to St. Joseph Catholic Church, 1315 Travis Street, El Paso, Texas 79903, or to your favorite charity.
Rosalie’s legacy is one of unconditional love, unshakable faith, and a life beautifully lived in service to others. She will be deeply missed, forever cherished, and always remembered.
