Marian Castillo

Marian Castillo died unexpectedly from complications due to gallbladder removal surgery, Friday, June 18, 2025. She was only 86 years old. The family is deeply saddened and shocked by her sudden death. Marian was born on October 12, 1938, in Aragon New Mexico.

Marian is survived and missed by her daughters, Bernice Thebeau and Pam Castillo-Rhodes, son, Jerry Castillo, 7 grandchildren, Teirza Thebeau (Jason Barnes), Brix Thebeau, Beau Thebeau, Candice Parman, Chad Perales, Chris Castillo, Cody Castillo-Rhodes, 9 great-grandchildren, sister, Nettie Baca and brother, Rudy Najar. Marian also leaves many other family members and friends who will sadly miss her.

Marian was preceded in death by her husband, Florenio “Crow” Castillo, son, Herman Castillo and brother, David Najar.

Marian held many jobs during her short life. She worked for the Round Valley school district as a teacher’s aid, she baked for Maverick store (even voted “Best Baker” in seven states!), cooked for numerous restaurants in Greer and worked at Best Western motel in their laundry division. In early years, Marian found joy and creativity in decorating cakes.

In Marian’s latter years she volunteered at St. Vincent DePaul store and was an Angel with St. Peter’s Catholic Church. She wore her blue apron even when she was finished with her duties. She loved that blue apron!

Marian was very active and after recent knee and hip replacements there was nothing she did not do. She enjoyed gardening, sewing, garage sales, a little casino time, traveling and bird watching. She had a flock of birds in her front yard that ate better than we did!

Marian was a devout Catholic and attended Mass regularly and prayed the Rosary daily (we knew better than to call or interrupt her rosary time!). Marian was a strong-willed woman; she was the glue that kept our family together (sassy glue). She was a constant presence in our lives and never stopped being there for us.

Our Mother Marian will be deeply missed but she will never be forgotten. She will always live in our hearts. We find comfort knowing that Marian is with our Lord God and she is at peace. Please join us in remembering Marian.

Rosary will be held Saturday, July 5, 2025 at 9:30 a.m. followed by a memorial Mass at 10:00 a.m. at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Springerville. A luncheon will follow the services at the church hall.