Mary Jo Shanks of Hurley, New Mexico passed away on Jan. 12, 2016 at the age of 80.

Mary Jo was born in McGill, Nevada on June 5, 1935 to Ivo D. and Hazel Pearl {Peggy} Cook. Mary Jo was the much younger of four siblings, and being the only girl, she was doted on by her parents and brothers, Fred, Ivo Van, and Ilton (Charles}.

She met the love of her life, Herbert Shanks, while still in high school, and they were married in 1952 when she was just 17. They remained together until Herb died in 2007 after 54 years of marriage.

She was a homemaker and raised two children, Peggy and Ivo Jess.

Mary Jo was a social butterfly and loved to be around people. She had a wonderful and unique laugh which identified her wherever she was.

She was a member of the Hurley Community Church where she and Herb celebrated their 50th anniversary by renewing their vows in a lovely ceremony surrounded by friends and family. She loved John Wayne, M*A*S*H, watching game shows with her friend, Anne Davis, crossword puzzles (a love which was handed down to her daughter), reading, and was a darn good Canasta and cribbage player!

Mary Jo is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Peggy and Terry Hughes, her grandson and his wife, Ivo P. and Anna Hughes, a great-grandson, Ivo Patxi Hughes, and many nieces, nephews and their families.

She was preceded in death by her son, Ivo Jess, her grandson, Ivo Paul Shanks, her parents and her brothers.

I know my mom (and I) would like to give our love and thanks to all her family and friends who made her life fuller, happier and were there to support her in the hard times. I know she would like me to give special thanks and love to her nieces and their husbands, Val and Rob Goodin and Patty and Roy Jackson for their unending love, support, and assistance over the years. Mom and I could not have made it through the last 3 -+ years without them!

No funeral services are planned. There will be a graveside service and celebration of her life at a later date.

Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels "Trusted care for the ones you love" ~ 575-537-0777.

To send your condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapels.com