Katrina Marie Avitia

Katrina Marie Avitia was a loving mother, daughter, sister, aunt, and educator whose imaginative spirit touched both home and school. Born January 19, 1982, in Carlsbad, New Mexico, Katrina grew up in Loving, where family and community were central to her life.

A natural creator, Katrina delighted in crafts, make-up artistry, and small acts of celebration — from handcrafting Halloween costumes to assembling Valentine’s Day boxes for her boys. Her gifts of creativity were shared freely: in holiday decorations, school events, and in the care she gave to family gatherings. Those who knew her remember a woman who loved to make ordinary days feel special.

Katrina pursued education after high school and returned to Loving with a deep devotion to family life. She helped her mother with the family restaurant for several years and, in 2014, embraced a career with Loving Municipal Schools as a teacher. Her students meant a great deal to her; being a part of their growth and learning brought her joy and purpose.

Most of all, Katrina’s sons were the center of her life. She took great pride in them and filled their days with warmth, creativity, and care. Family members remember her as an affectionate presence — a sister and aunt who treasured time with relatives and who left behind tangible memories in the crafts and projects she made for loved ones.

Katrina passed away on August 16, 2018, in Midland, Texas. She is survived by her sons, Octaviano Elijah Luna and LeeAndro Omari Luna; her mother, Rita (Sanchez) Avitia; brothers Ramon Avitia and Michael J. Avitia Jr.; and sister Ciara Soto, together with extended family who carry forward her memory. She was preceded in death by her father, Michael Avitia Sr., and her grandparents.

Services celebrating Katrina’s life were held in Loving and Carlsbad, where family and friends gathered to remember her warmth, creativity, and love for her children. Though she is no longer present each day, the care she took in making celebrations meaningful and the affection she showed her family continue to be remembered by all who loved her.