Vella Mae Harshbarger, 87, a resident of Bayard, NM entered eternal rest Monday, September 18, 2017 at her residence.

She was born November 3, 1929 in Fierro, NM to William G. Richards and Lillian A. Massey.

She is survived by her husband Ralph Harshbarger of the family home; one daughter, Michelle Stailey (Glen) of Silver City; three grandchildren, Jason Stailey (Hilary), Erin Williams (Sean), Jordan Stailey (Roxy); five great-grandchildren, Ivy and Dieter Stailey, Riley, Max, and Beau Williams; one brother, William "Billy" Richards of Riverside, CA; one sister, Norma Yount (Richard) of Queen Creek, AZ; nieces and nephews, Chris Heath, Robyn Hoffman, Lance Richards, Nancy Allen, Lisa Elwood, Lori Wimmer, Shannon Garcia, and Sean Stites; adopted daughter, Xochitl Melendez of Glendale, AZ; her children, Jonathan, Christopher, Erika and Julius Melendez; sister-in-law, Lois Stites of Hershey, PA.

She was preceded in death by her parents and sister-in-law, Carol Richards.

A Funeral Service will be celebrated on Monday, September 25th at 11am at the Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints with Bishop Randall Roth officiating.

Concluding service an interment will follow at Fort Bayard National Cemetery where she will be laid to rest. Pallbearers will be Jason and Jordan Stailey, Sean Williams, Sean Stites, Glen Stailey, Don Williamson, Lance Richards, and Jerry Davis.

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

To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com.