Gerry Lightwine

Gerry Lightwine

1933 - 2023

Gerry Lightwine, 89, of Albuquerque, passed away July 27, 2023. She was a strong, independent woman who dedicated her life to family, church, and community. Gerry was born on August 16, 1933, in Artesia, New Mexico, and throughout her life, she sought and achieved her calling of "something else yet to be done." Gerry had a diverse range of vocations, including wife, mother, foster parent, teacher, advisor, mentor, encourager, handbell ringer, pastor, chaplain, storyteller and someone really fun to be with. For 20 years, she served as Foreign Student Advisor at Eastern New Mexico University. She completed a 5-year course of study in Theology at Perkins School of Theology at SMU. She served as United Methodist Minister in three churches followed by 17 years as chaplain at La Vida LLena. Despite experiencing the loss of two husbands, she was determined not to become a "sad, cranky old lady." Instead, she reinvented herself as SAL - the sunflower - a silver-haired version of her "child within." With her head held high and petals of sunshine all around, Gerry used her storytelling talents to bring laughter and joy to children and seniors alike. Traveling and seeking new adventures were among Gerry's greatest passions. During summer vacations, she and her young family explored various destinations across the United States. She spent a summer in Newport, RI, as a storyteller at the local library and in park programs. Later in life, Gerry embarked on extensive overseas travels. Her love for people led her to engage in conversations with anyone she met, always eager to hear their stories and learn about them. Her home was a gathering place for friends and family, where they would come together to enjoy great meals and homemade ice cream and create lasting memories.

Gerry will be remembered for her unwavering dedication to her loved ones, her commitment to her faith, and her passion for storytelling and travel. Her legacy will forever be remembered by those whose lives she touched. She will be greatly missed, but her spirit of adventure, compassion, love, and giving will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Her impact on the lives she touched will continue to be felt for generations to come.

Gerry is survived by her four children: Lori Gruendl and Ellen Quisenberry of Fairfax, VA, Britt Quisenberry and Kay Quisenberry of Albuquerque; 10 grandchildren; and 4 great-grandchildren, and many extended family and friends. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Merle Quisenberry and John Lightwine.

The family extends great appreciation to our Visiting Angels for their extraordinary love and care.

A Gathering of Family and Friends will be Thanksgiving Day, details pending. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Kapanga Works! (c/o John Schwarting, 1587 15th St SE, Rio Rancho, NM 87124).

Daniels Family Funeral Services

3113 Carlisle Blvd NE

Albuquerque, NM 87110

505-884-1188