December 22, 1928 – December 24, 2025
It is with hearts both heavy and grateful that we honor the life of a woman whose love knew no bounds and whose faith moved mountains. On December 24, 2025, surrounded by the family she devoted her entire life to, Stella Lopez, age 97, of Moab, went home to the arms of her beloved husband and to her amazing sons she never stopped missing, reunited at last.
Stella was born on December 22, 1928, to Joe and Della Vigil. She was shaped by the rugged Southwest in an era when hard work wasn’t discussed—it was simply expected. At just ten years old, she left school to help raise her four younger siblings, a responsibility she carried with love and without complaint.
At fourteen, she met the love of her life, Frank Lopez. They married on July 19, 1943, and after several moves, they settled in Telluride, Colorado, in 1949 where they remained for twenty-eight years. In a modest home, Stella raised her family, creating abundance from scarcity. Her love and determination ensured her loved ones never went without.
When the Telluride mine closed, the family moved again—first to Montrose in 1978, then to Moab in 1979, which became her cherished home for over forty years.
Recognition never mattered to Stella. She was a mother not just to her children, but to anyone in need—offering unconditional love, warm meals, and comfort. A lifelong Catholic, her faith shaped her every day, and her home radiated the love of Christ she spoke of with such tenderness.
Her kitchen was the heart of her home. Her tortillas, green chili, sopapillas, and biscochitos became family legend. She made sure no mouth went hungry and no visitor left unfed. Her home was spotless, her yard a neighborhood joy, and her life a tireless act of service. From crocheting blankets to maintaining a welcoming home filled with love, Stella gave of herself endlessly.
She cherished nature—fishing, camping, feeding hummingbirds, and filling her yard with butterflies. Her love for tradition, family holidays, puzzles, candy bowls, and watermelon on warm nights created a legacy of comfort and joy.
Though she endured a life of many hardships, Stella never complained. She lived quietly but left an extraordinary impact. Her steely love and unwavering generosity lit up every life she touched. Her steadfast spirit will continue to guide her family for generations.
Stella is survived by her children: Felix Lopez (Millie), Cecelia Lopez, Irene Edwards (Bob), Leroy Lopez (MaryLou), Rick Lopez (Pam), Sandy Lopez (Eddie), Joannn Meryhew (Nivas), and Lori Lopez (Louie); sister Lydia Archuleta; and brother Robert Gurule.
Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Veronica Hernandez (Dennis), Ignitra Harris (Brian), Jesse Hernandez, Leah Green (Shawn), Kevin Lopez (Shay), Michael McCurdy (Ronnie), Stephen McCurdy (Tasha), Tiffany Lopez, Byron Edwards (Kelsey), Frank Lopez (Kim), Tracie Carroll (Keith), Jennie Lopez, Michelle Shepardson (Anthony), Stephanie Cluff (Jayson), Andrea Noyes (Chantell), Ricky Lopez, Emily Farnsworth (Jason), Torrie Rice (Adam), Christin Walker (Chad), and Dylan Meryhew; as well as 49 great- and great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Joe and Della Vigil; her husband, Frank; her sons, Louie and Eddie; her grandchildren, Jason and Jaime, and many siblings.
The family thanks the doctors, nurses, and staff at Moab Regional Hospital and expresses deep gratitude for all who have provided prayers, support, and love.
In lieu of flowers, please honor her memory by doing as she did: love someone who needs it, feed someone who is hungry, and welcome someone who feels alone.
A rosary will be held on January 1 at 7:00 p.m. at St. Pius X Catholic Church in Moab. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on January 2 at St. Pius X Catholic Church at 10:00 a.m., officiated by Father Noel P. Ancheta. Interment will follow immediately at Sunset Memorial Gardens.
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