Otilia M. Aguilar, 75 entered God’s presence on June 27, 2022. Tillie, as many knew her, was born to Mary H. Mesa and Jorge V. Mesa in Silver City, NM. She tragically lost her father when she was fifteen years old. However, she gave glory to God for allowing her mother to live to 97 years of age. She served God by honoring and caring for her mother in old age. She also was a caregiver for her brother Carlos, who could not care for himself. Tillie did this selflessly and did not expect anything in return. She loved her many family members and would do anything she could to help, often saying he or she “needs me.” Tillie loved education and worked diligently in school. She began school as a Spanish speaking only student, but persevered to learn and be successful. She graduated from Silver High School in 1965, earned a BA in 1974 and a MA in 1988 from WNMU. She taught at Sixth St. Elementary School for 30 years. Her passion was teaching and she truly loved every student. Tillie wrote, “A student needs to experience successes. Success makes learning fun and exciting which motivates the student to attend school because it makes him happy. A happy, successful student will stay in school and graduate.”

After retiring she continued helping in classrooms where her grandchildren attended. Recently, she expressed her desire to substitute teach and lamented, “if it wasn’t for my vision.” Tillie was an extraordinary teacher and won several awards for excellence. Tillie had a strong faith in God and His word. She accepted Jesus Christ as her Savior and gave her life to Him. She loved Him with her heart, soul and mind. He gave her His strength to accomplish so many of her goals in life. She was an outstanding mother, infinitely caring grandmother, an encouraging Tia, dedicated sister and generous friend. She had a sweet sense of humor and accepted teasing with a smile. We miss her immensely. Tillie’s siblings include Dora Estrada and husband David, George Mesa and wife Cecilia, Carlos Mesa, Goya Meza, Joe Mesa, Cande Mesa Laney and Georgia Mesa Duncan. Her children are Alejandro R. Aguilar and wife Brandi and Tanya A. Laws. Tillie’s grandchildren are Autumn, Titus and Lozen Laws, and Eliana Aguilar. She is preceded in death by her parents, siblings Raymundo Meza, Roberto, Ruben, and Maximiliano Mesa, and grandchildren Echo and Esai Laws. 

Visitation will be Monday, July 11 from 10-11am with the funeral service to commence at 11am with Pastor Joseph Gros officiating. Burial will follow at Memory Lane Cemetery. Pallbearers include Joe Mesa, Michael Mesa, Raymundo Meza Jr., Dustin Estrada, Dominick Duncan and Titus Laws. Honorary pallbearers include David Estrada, Larry Howard, Brian Haley and Bo Laws. Food and fellowship at Calvary Chapel of Silver City.

Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels “Trusted care for the ones you love” ~ 575-537-0777. To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com.