Juanita "Nita" Curry

Juanita Louise Curry, lovingly known as “Nita,” passed away peacefully on July 4, 2025, at the age of 84. A service celebrating Nita’s life will be held at 2:00 PM Tuesday, July 15, 2025 at Trinity Baptist Church, 1601 I-40, with Rev. Bob Miller officiating.

Born on April 7, 1941, in Tucumcari, New Mexico, Nita was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend whose kindness, faith, and gentle spirit left a lasting mark on all who knew her.

Nita was the daughter of Jesse W. (Bill) and Ella Marie Mitchell. She graduated from Tucumcari High School in 1959 and briefly attended Draughon Business School before marrying the love of her life, Bill Curry. The two built a beautiful life together, first in Santa Fe and Albuquerque before returning to Tucumcari in 1961, where they raised their daughter Tana and son Toby.

After retiring from the school system and banking, Nita and Bill pursued a shared dream — opening Sundowner Gallery & Gifts in 1994. There, Nita curated boutique items and organized memorable community events like Dinner at Sundown. The gallery became a beloved gathering place and a source of great joy and fulfillment in her life.

Nita’s faith was central to who she was. She was baptized at a young age in the Baptist church and lived her faith daily through acts of service and compassion. She volunteered with Blankets of Love, making comforting blankets for children, some of which are now treasured keepsakes of her great-grandchildren.

Nita was a proud 50-year member of the Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.), through which she supported the advancement of women’s education. She was honored with the prestigious Golden Girl Award for her decades of unwavering service, a reflection of her lifelong commitment to uplifting others.

Nita was preceded in death by her parents Jesse and Ella Mitchell; her beloved daughter, Tana Curry; her son-in-law, Quentin; and a great-grandchild she never had the chance to meet but loved dearly.

She is survived by her loving husband of 63 years, Bill Curry; her son Toby Curry; grandchildren Cameron, Jakkie, Katherine, and Colby; five great-grandchildren; and her cherished dog, Daisy.

Nita will be remembered for her strength, grace, unwavering faith, and the gentle way she loved others. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her family, friends, and the countless lives she touched.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Blankets of Love program or the P.E.O. Foundation.