Elias R. Ruiz, 86, a lifelong resident of Lordsburg passed away Thursday May 19, 2016 at Sunshine Haven Nursing Home.

Elias was born April 15, 1930 in Lordsburg to Ernesto and Maria Ruiz. He served his country honorably in the United States Army during the Korean War and upon his return he worked at Phelps Dodge Mining until his retirement. Elias enjoyed singing and dancing and especially loved his family and was proud of all his grandchildren. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, the V.F.W., the Lordsburg Honor Guard, and was a lifelong member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church.

He is survived by his daughter, Sarah Morelos, (Freddy) of Lordsburg; 2 sons, Elias Ruiz Jr. (Sandra) of Lordsburg, Charlie Ruiz (Marlene) of Tucson, AZ; his brother, Ernesto Ruiz Jr., (Grace) of Santa Fe, NM; 13 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren.

Elias was preceded in death by 1 son, Arturo "Tudy" Ruiz.

Visitation will be Tuesday morning, May 24, 2016 at 9 o'clock at St. Joseph's Catholic Church where a prayer vigil will begin at 10 o'clock to be led by Alice Ramirez. Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 o'clock with Fr. Jude Okonkwo, Pastor officiating. Concluding services and interment will follow at Shakespeare Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Eddie Morelos, Armando Morelos, Elias Ruiz III, Arturo Ruiz Jr., Christopher Ruiz, Charles Ruiz Jr., and Gabriel Varela. Honorary bearers are Miguel Ruiz, Nicolas "Niko" Ruiz, Andrew Hernandez, Arturo Talavera, Isaiah Apodaca and Elijah Apodaca.