Louise R. Stokes

Mrs. Louise R. Stokes, age 93 years, a native of Jefferson City, Mo., and a long time resident of Rio Rancho, New Mexico, died Sunday, December 31, 2011, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on October 31, 1918, in Aurora, Mo., a daughter of the late John E. and Winnie M. Frost Robinson. She married Vincent J. Stokes, who preceded her in death. Louise was a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, friend and neighbor who will be missed by all who knew and loved her. Her family was her greatest joy and she was happiest when all her family was gathered around, whether it was the dinner table, the card table, crowded into the kitchen, or relaxing on her patio enjoying her backyard and view of the Sandia Mountains. She loved cruises, camping, crafts, cooking for her family and caring for her yard and garden. She was a role model in balancing a successful and gratifying career with caring for her family, who never lost sight of the importance of the relationships with her family and the people in her life. She will be forever loved and missed by her family and friends. She is survived by her daughters, Patricia L. Stokes of Rio Rancho, N.M., Jeanne Anne Stokes of Rio Rancho, N.M. and Theresa M. Michael and her husband, Tameru of Rio Rancho, N.M.; her sons, James H. Stokes and his wife Nancy of Ottertail, Minn. and Stephen V. Stokes and his wife Patricia of Excelsior Springs, Mo.; her sister, Mary Leonard of Payton, Idaho; her grandchildren, David Stokes, Kaye Knox, Etsegenet Michael, Nathaniel Michael and Jana Lindauer; and seven great-grandchildren. Graveside services and interment will be conducted at 2:30 p.m. Friday, January 13, 2011, at Resurrection Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Rio Rancho Special Olympics Team, c/o Mike Torres, 847 Chuckwagon Rd. SE Rio Rancho, NM 87124. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Freeman Mortuary. www.freemanmortuary.com