Ethel Schwiner, age 86, passed away on October 16, 2026, in Corrales, New Mexico. She was born on May 11, 1940, in Melrose, Massachusetts, to Ralph and Agnes Stearns.

Ethel was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, James Schwiner. She is survived by her children: daughter Lisa Smith; son Tim Smith (Di Hsu); daughter Jennifer Trujillo (Raydaniel); and sons Darren Schwiner and Samuel Schwiner.

She was a proud grandmother to Eric Schwiner (Monica), Alyssa Ruiz (Jonathan) Hugh Smith, and Juliana Trujillo, and a loving great-grandmother to Madison and Issiah Schwiner, Dylan and Adalynn Ruiz, and Venice Trujillo. She also leaves behind her beloved dog, Kiki.

Ethel began her career as a teacher and substitute teacher before pursuing further education and earning a degree in radiation protection. She went on to work at Los Alamos National Laboratory until her retirement.

Throughout her life, Ethel enjoyed book clubs, backpacking, and traveling. She was also active in her community, serving in Girl Scout leadership and participating in the New Mexico Republican Party.

One of Ethel’s most extraordinary contributions was her dedication to helping save lives. She possessed a rare blood antibody that was used in the production of Rho(D) immune globulin, a treatment that has helped protect countless babies from serious complications related to Rh incompatibility. For more than 15 years, Ethel generously donated her plasma twice a week to support this life-saving program. Her remarkable commitment to helping others leaves a lasting legacy of compassion and generosity.

The family wishes to express its heartfelt gratitude to Roadrunner Hospice for the compassionate care and support provided to Ethel. She will be remembered for her dedication to her family, her service to her community, her adventurous spirit, and her extraordinary generosity toward others.

There will be no public services.