Lagrone Funeral Chapel

04/05/2026

Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed Easter.

03/30/2026

Today we recognize the doctors who serve our communities with integrity, compassion, and unwavering dedication.

Happy National Doctors’ Day!

03/26/2026

Florine Smith

Florine Smith, born October 16, 1948, in Mescalero, New Mexico to Charles Smith, Sr. and Addie Tissnolthtos. Florine passed away on March 23, 2026, in El Paso, Texas.

Florine is survived by her brother Charles Smith, Jr. and her children; Kristi LaPaz, Kathryn Rocha, Darron Valdez and Annette Smith and her grandchildren; Jeremiah Zuazua, Jamal Rocha, Matias LaPaz, Kenan G. Zuazua, George J. Rocha, Jarien LaPaz, Kaleena Zuazua, Kaylionna Rocha, Kolin Zuazua, Karyssa Zuazua, Shaidyn LaPaz, Kobe Zuazua, Wyvern Rocha, and Darron Valdez, Jr. and her great grandchildren; Kaydriel Torres, Devony Rocha and Amaya Zuazua. Her Great nieces; Olivia Smith and Ophelia Prins, and numerous other family members and friends.

Florine is preceded in death by her Parents; Charles Smith, Sr., and Addie Tissnolthos. Her sons; Wyvern Zuazua and Kenan C. J. Zuazua. Her siblings; a loving sister Olivia Essary, Anastasia Smith Kanseah, Ophelia Smith, Ambrose Smith.

Florine lived in Mescalero most of her life. Florine attended school in Whitetail, Ruidoso, and Albuquerque Indian School. Florine also attended college in San Francisco, California. And continued her college education at ENMU Ruidoso.

A dedicated and caring mother who raised her children independently, had profound affection for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She frequently expressed her admiration for her loved ones. Her presence was marked by kindness and warmth. Florine was an accomplished Apache cradle board maker, crafting numerous cradles for the Mescalero community. She ensured the tradition's continuation by teaching her children the craft, thereby preserving the cultural heritage. She took pleasure in gathering materials from the forest for the cradle boards.

She worked many jobs in Mescalero and Ruidoso area. Most recently, Florine had the opportunity to work as an Apache Language teacher at Ruidoso Schools, primarily at Sierra Vista Primary. She was enthusiastic about teaching young children their native language. Florine worked closely with her colleague, the late Trudy Gaines. She treasured interacting with the children and preserving the Mescalero culture and language.

Also, she worked as a Fire Lookout at the Towers, she worked on the Reservation for the Mescalero Forestry. She loved working outdoors, appreciating its tranquility, beauty, and prioritized protecting the land.

Additionally, Florine worked for the Mescalero Tribal Human Services where she enjoyed supporting her colleagues in a clerical position. Florine also had a long tenure working in Medical Records at the Indian Health Service.

She enjoyed playing Mexican cards and the occasional dice game farko with family and friends, as well as playing slots at the Casino. She appreciated nature and would often take rides and hikes through the forest. Florine cherished spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, constantly reminding them of her love which was limitless.

Funeral services will be held in her honor on March 30, 2026, at St. Joseph Apache Mission in Mescalero, New Mexico. Rosary at 9:00 am and the Funeral Mass at 10:00 am. Burial to follow church services at Mescalero Cemetery.

View Florine Smith's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/25/2026

Every life tells a story.

The memories we share, the traditions we pass down, and the lives we celebrate continue to grow long after the moment has passed.

03/23/2026

Spring cleaning isn’t just about closets and paperwork.
It’s also a great time to organize the plans your family will one day need.

A little planning now can bring a lot of peace later.

Call us to learn how simple it can be.

03/20/2026

A season of renewal, reflection, and fresh beginnings.
Happy first day of spring!

03/19/2026

Paul Dalton Holder III "D"

Paul Dalton Holder III, affectionately known as "D," passed away peacefully on March 5, 2026, leaving behind a legacy as rich and profound as the art he created and the love he so freely gave. Born on January 10, 1964, Paul was a man of many talents whose vibrant spirit touched all who knew him.

From the moment he picked up a pair of drumsticks in 1998, it was clear that music was as natural to him as the air he breathed. His rhythmic pulse seemed to echo a lifetime of unspoken melodies, and his ability to play as though born to the drum set left friends and family in awe. But music was only one facet of his vast artistic gift. Paul’s pencil drawings, paintings, and sculptures each told stories of a deeply creative soul. He had an extraordinary way with materials, even crafting planes out of old record jackets, transforming ordinary objects into whimsical flights of imagination.

Beyond his artistry, Paul was a man of unwavering strength—physically, spiritually, and emotionally. He carried his faith like armor, standing unconquered and unconquerable through life’s trials. Those who knew him admired not only his resilience but the quiet, unshakable conviction that guided his path.

Paul’s hands were as skilled in quiet handiwork as they were on the drums. One of his proudest accomplishments was laying beautiful tile, a craft he mastered so well that he was honored with the unique opportunity to work at the governor’s mansion. This achievement stood as testament to his dedication, precision, and pride in his work.

Yet, amid his many talents and triumphs, Paul’s greatest love and gift was reserved for his children and grandchildren. It was in their laughter and growth that his heart truly sang. He shared with them not only his artistry and joy but also his profound faith in God and the Bible, passing down a spiritual legacy as enduring as his art and music. His belief was a beacon that illuminated their lives, shaping them with kindness, wisdom, and hope.

Paul is survived by his sons, Matthew Dalton Holder, and Elijah Russel Holder; daughter, Ashley Faye Holder; grandchildren, Kason Flowers, Sylvia Holder, Audriyanna Cagle, Elizabeth Holder, and Paul Dalton Holder IV; brothers, Curtis Holder, and Colin Holder; mother, Rosemary Turner (Crain); niece, Rebecca Holder, and many other nieces and nephews he held close to his heart. He is preceded in death by his father, Paul Dalton Holder II; step father, Howard Crain; great grandparents, Russel and Viola Henderson; and sister, Cheryl Harris (Crain).

Paul Dalton Holder III’s memory will forever resonate in the melodies he played, the masterpieces he crafted, and the spiritual light he kindled within those he loved. Though he has left this world, the strength of his presence remains unconquered in the hearts of all who were privileged to know "D"—a man truly one of a kind.

View Paul Dalton Holder III "D"'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/19/2026

What’s a favorite memory that always makes you smile?

03/17/2026

Wishing everyone a happy St. Patrick’s Day!
Have you ever wondered why we wear green or where the “pinch” tradition came from? Here’s a quick look at some history behind the holiday.

03/13/2026

Today we honor the courageous K9s who have served alongside our military and law enforcement. Their loyalty, bravery, and service have made a lasting impact. Thank you to these incredible four-legged heroes.

03/11/2026

We’re honored to serve families in our community, and to care for every detail with compassion, dignity, and respect.

Thank you for trusting us when it matters most.

03/10/2026

Randy Vinson

Randy Vinson, 72, of Capitan, NM, was taken to meet his Lord and Savior on March 6, 2026. Randy was born on May 30, 1953, in Madill, OK. He graduated from high school in Coleman, OK, soon enlisting in the U.S. Army where he became a paratrooper and was assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division and was honorably discharged as SGT-ES.

Pursuing his love for animals, Randy graduated from Murray State College as a certified veterinary technician. While employed at a veterinary clinic in Denison, TX, he met the love of his life, Susan (Kumpf). They were married in 1983, spending 42 blessed years together. When Randy accepted a position with the Ruidoso Animal Clinic in 1984, the couple moved to Capitan, NM. Randy's love for the outdoors prompted him to apply for a seasonal position with the U.S. Forest Service Engine Crew out of Capitan where he embarked on a career in wildland fire. He later served two seasons as a member of the Smokey Bear Hot Shot crew until he was accepted at the North Cascades Smokejumper Base in Wmthrop, WA. After spending three seasons as a smokejumper, Randy became crew foreman for the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) Roswell Hotshot crew. He then transitioned to Range Technician at Ft. Stanton, NM, where he worked for 25 years until he retired. While wildland fire remained a significant part of his career, Randy loved managing the BLM lands and wildlife waters in Ft. Stanton. He made many friends and treasured memories along the way.

Randy was a devoted and cherished husband, father, and grandfather. He loved spending time in the outdoors - hiking, running, hunting, fishing, and woodcutting. His strong faith in Jesus Christ shone a light on the path for his family to follow.

Randy is survived by his wife, Susan; his sons: Zachary ofNogal, NM and Jesse (Kristen) of Alto, NM; his daughter, Nathania (Quirt) of Claunch, NM, and 7 much-loved grandchildren who adored "Papa" -Abigaile, Rowan, Jackson, Zia, Hermione, Ryan, and Ainsley. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Fern and Jack John of Fillmore, OK.

In accordance with his wishes, there will be no services, but Randy will live on in the memories of those who knew him.

View Randy Vinson's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.