Gabriela E. Maestas

Gabriela Elsie Maestas, a beloved mother, daughter, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 29th 2024 while surrounded by all of her children.

Born August 5, 1939, in Durango, Colorado, to Antonio and Aurora Maestas, Gabriela “Ella” was one of nine children: three boys and six girls. From a young age, Ella's deep faith and love for her family was her greatest priority.

Ella was the proud mother of six children: Georgia, Michael, Pauline, Terrance, Caroline, and Billie Jo. Throughout her life, Ella cherished her large and loving family, including her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who adored her. She also generously provided foster care for several children over many years.

Ella dedicated a significant portion of her career to caring for others at Community Connections in Durango, Colorado. She spent countless hours assisting her clients with finding sustainable jobs and housing, empowering them to become as independent as possible. Many of her clients faced physical and mental disabilities, and Ella loved and supported each one with unwavering compassion. When Ella wasn’t working, one could find her enjoying the simple things in life like catching up on the phone with her brothers and sisters, eating a good slice of pizza, or drinking a Coors Light with one of her children when they came into town. She had a lifelong love for dancing, specifically to Old Country and Spanish music. She never turned down an opportunity to dance with one of her sons on the dance floor.

Ella cherished taking care of herself and staying physically fit. Despite facing a lifelong battle with rheumatoid arthritis, Ella remained an inspiration to all. She never let her condition limit her spirit, continuing to move, dance, and celebrate all of the blessings in her life. Ella often reminded others how fortunate we are to have each other. Ella’s simplicity is a reminder to us all what truly matters in life. Her commitment to God, her children and family will be her legacy that will continue even now that she is gone.

To Ella, we say "well done, good and faithful servant." Ella will be deeply missed, but we hold onto the hope of reuniting with her in eternity.

Family and Friends are welcome to join as we honor and celebrate her life

• January 5th, 2025: Rosary at 6:30 PM (Callahan-Edfast Mortuary and Crematory)

• January 6th 2025: Funeral service at 1pm (St Joseph’s Catholic Church, Grand Junction Co.)