Betty Jo Mares

Betty Jo Mares peacefully ended her long battle with Alzheimer’s disease at home on Sunday January 7.  

Betty Jo was born July 28, 1950 in Albuquerque, NM.   She is preceded in death by her parents, Alfonso and Frances Trujillo, and just recently, her brother Herman Trujillo, father-in-law Carlos Mares, brother-in-law Art Mares.  She is survived by her mother-in-law Lorein Mares, husband of nearly 53 years, Mike Mares, her 3 sons: Chris, Rick and Nick Mares (Berlinda) , Gerri Trujillo (Mike), sisters: Vangie Gallegos and Ruby Miller, sister-in-law Kathy Mares, grandchildren: Chantal Horton(Alex), Alexandria, Jasper, Abriana and Antonio Mares, Javier Quinones III, Sabrina Garcia, great-grandchildren: Braylon, Haven, Ivory and Emery Horton, and the many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.  

For the last 40 years, Betty Jo shared ownership and operation of their family business, Copy Shack, Inc.  The great asset was her caring and friendly interaction with the customers which contributed to awesome customer loyalty.  She had a beautiful smile and such laughter that was a joy to watch.  

After she received the disheartening news of her diagnosis, over 10 years ago, she said “It is what it is and we are going to make the best of it”.  And she did!  Through the early years of marriage she insisted on being a stay-at-home mom to be with the kids until they were older and more independent.  She also loved to be actively involved with her grandchildren.   She always had a special attraction and love for all children.  During her illness, she often had hallucinations of children and a need to care for them.  Betty Jo often joined her husband and friends on many motorcycle adventures throughout the United States and Canada.  Other travels included Mexico and Europe.  She very much enjoyed sewing, crafts and baking.  Her biscochitos, layer dessert and magic cookie bars were often requested and enjoyed by many.  During her illness she emphasized diet and exercise, and would walk daily at Santa Fe Place Mall with her walking buddies, and enjoyed visiting with many of the employees.  She and her husband were charter members of Rodeo Road Church which later evolved into Sagebrush Church in Santa Fe. Her faith and loving character contributed to a wonderful life and relationships in her temporary journey here on earth.  

Betty Jo has begun her eternal life in her new perfect body.   Thank you for all those who were fortunate enough to share a loving relationship with her.  So many of us will cherish the memories of the joy and laughter shared with this wonderful gift of God.  The commitment I made at our wedding to care for her never wavered to the end.  I appreciate the wonderful years that we were so privileged to share, and look forward to our wonderful reunion.  We want to thank all those at Enchantment Hospice for their wonderful care of Betty Jo throughout her illness.   A celebration of life is being planned and will be announced soon.