Mary Ida Mesa passed away on October 22, 2026 at the age of 93. She was the daughter of Mary Gallegos and Jose Castellano. Born in Mora, New Mexico on March 10, 1933 she moved to Laramie as a young child. Although she endured physical disabilities throughout her life, Mary graduated from high school and worked as a secretary for the University of Wyoming until she retired.
She is preceded in death by her husband Alfred Mesa, her parents, daughter Debra Carey, sisters Marge Oliverius and Martha Cunningham along with brothers Claudio Castellano, John Gallegos, and nephew Greg Cunningham.
She is survived by her daughter Christine Stimson, sister Patti Prettyman, brothers Joe Castellano, Jim & Vic Gallegos, grandsons Luke Stimson and Eli Carey, plus great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Mary enjoyed several hobbies: quilt making, cross stitch, knitting, crocheting and sewing clothes. Her favorite pastime was reading (she would read at least, one book per week) and listening to her collection of mostly country and western CDs She always strove to look her best, because doing so made her feel good about herself. Mary had great strength of character and a good sense of humor. All who met her felt comfortable in her presence and enjoyed being around her.
If you wish to make a donation in Mary’s name – Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library which is run by the Dollywood Foundation would be a fine choice.
A memorial service will be held at 12:00p.m., on Friday, November 6th at The Laramie Civic Center Phoenix Ballroom.
