Arthur Porras Lara, 69, a resident of Las Cruces, New Mexico, entered eternal rest Thursday, November 26, 2020, at Mountain View Regional Center in Las Cruces, New Mexico. He was born on May 16, 1951, in Las Cruces, New Mexico, to Jose and Consuelo Lara. Arthur was the oldest son of seven siblings.

He joined the United States Navy in 1969 and served during the Vietnam War for two years. He was deployed to Vietnam and received many commendations while there; National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Vietnam Service Medal with one bronze star.

After returning from Vietnam, he worked various jobs, until he found his career at White Sands Missile Range. While at White Sands Missile Range he was a Supervisor for the POL which provides services to the United States Military.  He retired in 2012 after 34 years. After retirement he enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. A few of his favorite pastimes include riding his Indian Trike Motorcycle and traveling to Ruidoso to spend time at the Inn Mountain of Gods. Arthur was a faithful member of the Roman Catholic Church and attended Immaculate Heart of Mary. Arthur was a loving son, brother, husband, father, uncle, grandfather, and friend. He will be deeply missed by many. 

He is preceded in death by his mother, Consuelo Lara, and survived by his father, Jose Lara. Arthur leaves behind his wife, Rose Lara, of 32 years. He is also survived by his eight children, Gilbert Lara (Leah), Arthur Lara Jr, Mary Ellen Lara (Eric), Steve Lara (Michelle), Gabriel Lara (Susie), Michael Lara (Ernestina), Jacob Lara (Samantha), and Cylinda Lara-Rizzon (Gino). Arthur leaves behind twenty-two grandchildren and four great grandchildren. 

Arthur is also survived by his seven siblings; Danny Lara, Joe Lara, Terri Figueroa, Patsy Ovalle, Leticia Martinez, Cindy Lara, and Sandra Lara. He is also survived by his special family and friends, Oralia Mesa Porras (Tia Lala), Paul Porras, Eddie Lara, Izrael Lara and his friend of many years, Ray Castillo.  

The Lara family would like to express their sincerest thanks to all the nurses and doctors who worked so hard to save Arthur, especially the team at Mountain View Regional Medical Center in Las Cruces.  

Holy rosary being recited by Carmen Terrazas will be held Thursday, December 17th at 10am at Santa Rosa de Lima Church in Las Cruces, NM.  The memorial mass will follow at 10:30am with Father Gino Wilcox officiating.  Cremation has taken place at Terrazas Crematory.  Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels and Crematory “Trusted care for the ones you love” ~ 575-537-0777. To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com.