Alice O. Contreras, age 82, of El Paso, Texas passed away on Monday, February 21, 2022, surrounded by loved ones. Born March 11, 1939, she grew up in El Paso, attended Ysleta High School and graduated from Texas Western College (now UTEP).
A beloved and devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister, and aunt, Alice is survived by her husband of 59 years, Eduardo Contreras; her daughter Elizabeth Wagner; her sister Cecilia McNeely, her sister Irma Garcia, her brother Rene Ornelas and her brother Joe Mario Ornelas and a large extended family that includes many nieces, nephews and godchildren who will miss her dearly. Alice was preceded in death by her father Joe S. Ornelas and her mother Josefina Jacquez Ornelas.
Fueled by a life-long thirst for knowledge and sense of adventure, Alice was an avid reader, a great storyteller and a sage mentor to many. As a schoolteacher and a librarian, she shared her passion for learning with thousands of children over the years. Always willing to listen, lend a helping hand, or offer advice when asked, Alice touched many lives with her compassion, generosity, kindness, and warm smile. A champion athlete, she faced all of life's challenges with strength and courage. She worked hard, but never forgot how to have a good time. Alice loved life and would want her family and friends to honor her legacy by living their lives to the fullest.
Funeral mass for Alice will be held on Thursday, March 3, 2022, at 9:30 AM at Our Lady of Assumption Catholic Church, 4800 Byron St., El Paso, Texas 79930. Followed by a private burial service for family members at 11:00 AM at Ft. Bliss National Cemetery, 5200 Fred Wilson, El Paso, Texas 79906.
In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that a tribute donation be made to the Alzheimer's Association or that you share a few of your favorite stories about Alice with them. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy for the family may be shared at www.FunerariaDelAngelCentral.com
