Victoria Grace Lazzell

Victoria Grace Lazzell (Vickie), 91, resident of Chama, NM, entered the gates of Heaven on December 19, 2022.  She was born on July 3, 1931, in Indianapolis, Indiana to Andrew and Rosa Gabriel.  Victoria was preceded in death by her parents Andrew and Rosa Gabriel, infant son Michael Lazzell, brothers Andrew (Irma) and Martin (Olga) Gabriel, husband Robert Ray Lazzell and stepson Robert Allen Lazzell.

Victoria is survived by two nephews and a niece who reside in Indiana and Florida.  Also, surviving her are several neighbors and friends who checked on Victoria daily.

Victoria and her husband Robert, moved from Indianapolis to El Paso, Texas in 1955.  In 1962, they relocated to Albuquerque, NM, till September of 1964 when they settled in Chama, NM.  Victoria started dispatching for Dr. Dabbs in October 1969, who covered all of Northern Rio Arriba County. Victoria dispatched for the Village of Chama for 45 years before our 911 system in Rio Arriba County.  Victoria also dispatched for New Mexico State Police, Rio Arriba Sheriff’s Department, New Mexico Game & Fish, Espanola Ambulance Service, local fire departments and NORA Electric Cooperative.

Victoria was a devout Catholic parishioner for St. Patrick’s Catholic Church.  She managed the candles and missalettes for 25 years.  When Victoria no longer drove, she maintained her faith by praying through EWTN daily.  She received communion at home through the Eucharistic Ministry.  Victoria was the First Lady by the Sorority and served as Grand Marshall for Chama Days.

A Rosary will be held on January 10, 2023 at 10:00 am at the St. Patricks Catholic Church in Chama, NM. Mass will follow at 11:00 am. Burial will follow at 12:00 pm at Chama Community Cemetery. A meal to follow at the St. Patricks Catholic Church Hall in Chama, NM after burial.

The family of Victoria Grace Lazzell has entrusted their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home and Crematory of the beautiful Espanola Valley.  www.devargasfuneral.com   505.747.7477