An angel on earth is now an angel in heaven. The beautiful life of Mary Eileen Gallegos-Lewis came to a peaceful end Friday, June 26, 2015. Eileen was surrounded by her loving husband, children, and son-in-law in her home.
Born in New Mexico on April 21, 1949, Eileen was raised in the community of Villanueva, the eldest child of four. She attended Catholic elementary school where her foundation of faith, love of learning and lifelong passion for reading developed. From an early age, her devotion to her family and her benevolence and generosity was apparent and remained a constant throughout her life.
Upon graduation from Robinson High School in Las Vegas, New Mexico, she attended the University of New Mexico until her overwhelming desire to travel and her curiosity of the world led her to United Airlines. Her 43 years as a flight attendant began in March of 1972 until her passing. Her extensive travel carried her throughout North and South America, Europe, and Asia. Being a daughter of a World War II veteran, Eileen had a deep love and respect for the United States of America and served as a wonderful example of an American citizen to the international community. She was the consummate professional for United. Her travels provided her with countless opportunities, but the most treasured were the extensive list of Catholic churches she was able to visit all over the world.
In 1977, Eileen married the love of her life, James Ross Lewis. Their marriage has been blessed for over 37 years. Together, they welcomed God’s gift and grace of three beautiful children, Ross Guthrie, Anna Maria, and Daniel Blaise.
Eileen had always been a devoted, nurturing, and affectionate mother and wife. Eileen welcomed you with open arms and a smile. The genuine sincerity of this affection had a lasting effect on everyone she met, regardless of age, race, religion or place in the world. Upon her passing, her family has received condolences from around the world.
Eileen was a gregarious, generous, stunningly beautiful woman with a heart of gold and a wonderful witty sense of humor. Her daily devotional readings and her love of the Lord kept her on the path to her salvation. Her final wishes were that all of us will be with her again. As she would say, “It’s not that hard. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. We’re all brothers and sisters. We simply need to love one another as Jesus loves us.”
Eileen was preceded in her death by her father, Fortunato Gallegos, and many aunts and uncles on her fraternal and maternal sides of the family with whom she shared great affection.
Eileen is survived by her husband of over 37 years, Ross; her children, Ross Guthrie, Anna Maria, and Daniel Blaise, and her son-in-law, Patrick. She also leaves behind her mother, Frances; her brothers, Eugene, Anthony, and Charles, and their loving families. She is survived by her husband’s family, other extended family members, and an extensive “sorority” of flight attendants who reside all over the world.
The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, July 7 at Covenant Funeral Service, Fredericksburg, with a rosary service at 6 o’clock.
A mass of celebration will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 8 at St. Patrick Catholic Church. Interment will be private.
Eileen loved flowers. However, donations made in her honor will be accepted to the following charities: Defeat GBM Research Collaborative, a subsidiary of the National Brain Tumor Society; and the Wings as Eagles Ministries in South Dakota. Per Eileen’s request, donations made to Wings as Eagles Ministries should be made out to her husband, James Ross Lewis, and mailed to 12308 Dell Way, Fredericksburg, Va. 22407. Her family will use the funds this winter to purchase clothing and help with heating costs for families on the reservation.
Online guest book is available at covenantfuneralservice.com.