Yvonne Garcia Monares

On December 24th, 2020, at the age of 62, Yvonne "Gigi" Garcia Monares left this Earth and began her journey to Heaven. She was a warrior of Lupus, battling the disease daily, along with undergoing many surgeries and therapy that were a risk to her health. Despite the challenges of living with Lupus, she always had a positive attitude about everything, and devoted herself to family and helping others. Prior to her diagnosis, she was already dedicated to the wellness of the community during her career as a Critical Care Nurse at Providence Memorial Hospital. She was very proud of her role in the ICU, Nursery, Telemetry and other units of the hospital to care for those in need. Many of us sought her advice, and also guidance for handling physical and mental health issues. She made an impact on the community as a Director of the Lupus Foundation of America, El Paso Chapter from '98-'01. Working with many physicians and members, she raised awareness and shared information during a time when little was known about the disease. It was in her nature to be an advocate; she assisted many children and families of domestic abuse as a volunteer for the CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children) of El Paso. She made a difference in ensuring a positive future for the children faced with issues. During her time as a CASA, she developed a relationship with many in the court system and police departments, which lead her to serve as a Victims Services Coordinator for the Sunland Park Police Dept., an Interstate Victims Advocate Supervisor of Dona Ana County, NM, and a trainer for the Coalition Against Domestic Violence of New Mexico. With a brief departure from volunteer services, she was really looking forward to continuing after the pandemic cleared. Even with the unanticipated days of not feeling well, her faith, strength, and perseverance drove her to her best as a loving mother, wife, daughter, sister, aunt, cousin, friend, and human being. She was a mother to many people, her laughter and positivity was contagious. She was and will continue to be an inspiration to us all. May she watch over everyone that she loved, now, as an Angel of God. Gathering of Remembrance 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM with Rosary at 6:00 PM, Friday, January 8, 2021 at Sunset Funeral Homes- East, 750 N. Carolina.