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Maria Eileen Romero Gordon, a spirited, refined, and deeply religious woman, died at the age of 89 in Albuquerque on Monday, April 29, 2002. Husbands Charles Broome, Jose Isern, and Dr. Richard B. Gordon preceded Maria Eileen in death. She was the youngest daughter of Federico and Francisquita Sanchez Romero of Peralta, one of New Mexico's oldest families. Maria Eileen left as immediate survivors, one brother, Fred Romero Jr., and wife, Elvira. She was also preceded in death by siblings, Fred Romero (infant), Eloisa R. Barela, Americo Romero, Sister M. Marcianne O.S.M., and niece, Ida Edith Romero. Among her many attributes, Maria Eileen's, understanding of human nature was paramount. She overcame obstacles placed in her path, emerging stronger and wiser. Maria Eileen was generous to the extreme with her time, energy, and worldly goods. Many of her private donations will never be known in this life. She helped so many people who traveled the same journey toward God. Her Catholic faith was strong and enduring to the end. Although she had no surviving children of her own, she nurtured many of her nephews, nieces, and stepchildren. Maria Eileen left behind nieces, Dolores M. Armijo and husband, Joe; Sophie A. Clark; Frances P. Jones; Madonna R. Magdalen Romero; Anna Romero; Marcianne R. Miller and husband, Wayne; Beth Martinez and husband, Alex; as well as nephews, Eugene F. Barela and wife, Robyn; Fred Romero III and wife, Carmella. A self-taught woman, she acquired an understanding of the ancient art of porcelain painting, advancing ultimately to national office in the United States. She gave individual, private instruction in this art for many years until her eyesight failed. An avid reader, she collected primarily first edition, rare, and out-of-print books, with a focus on history, as well as the history of New Mexico. Maria Eileen often recalled meaningful quotations from her favorite books. Further, she acquired an extensive knowledge and appreciation of antiques. In her early years, she worked as an office manager for Broome/Franciscan Furniture. Later, Maria Eileen managed personal real estate holdings and the administration of Dr. Gordon's medical practice in Las Vegas, Nevada. Together, Dr. Gordon and Maria Eileen traveled to most historical sites in Europe. It was in Switzerland in 1972 that Maria Eileen endured the unexpectedly sudden and tragic death of Dr. Gordon. Maria Eileen carried on alone until the end of her days. Rosary will be recited Wednesday, May 1, 2002, 8:00 p.m., at Our Lady of the Assumption Church, Lomas and Tennessee NE. Mass will be celebrated Thursday, May 2, 2002, 2:00 p.m., at Our Lady of the Assumption Church, Lomas and Tennessee NE.
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