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Leila Miller passed away peacefully at her home May 10, 2006. It was one day before her 84th birthday. A native of Puerto Rico, Leila came to New Mexico shortly after WWII with her late husband, Brownlow Beaver of Gallup, NM. She became a journalist and radio personality, lately as the host of "Jardin de Melodias"' with KSWV 810 AM radio. She started as a reporter and editor for The Gallup Daily Independent where she met and worked with Ernie Mills, another well known New Mexico journalist. She was extremely active in Democratic politics, serving two terms as Socorro County Treasurer and an active member of the New Mexico Democratic Women's Organization. She could count four New Mexico Governors as friends and helped numerous Democratic candidates win their offices. She was also a New Mexico Delegate to a National Democratic Convention Although Leila was well known in politics, her kindness and consideration made her well known and loved by people from various walks of life. She never met a stranger and had many friends. Her home was constantly filled with visitors with a common love for her and her family. Leila often remarked that Puerto Rico was the "Island of Enchantment" and New Mexico was the "Land of Enchantment". She loved them both deeply and that love was returned. Leila is survived by her children, Leyla Alice Sedillo-Gallegos of Socorro, NM, Ed Beaver, of Nashville, TN, Milli Miller of Santa Fe, NM, and Barbara J. Vigil, whom Leila considered and treated like a daughter. She is also survived by seven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and countless beloved friends. Leila was preceded in death by her father, Martin Vasquez in 1986, whom she cared for until his passing; her mother, Nemesia Gaztambide of Puerto Rico; and her talented granddaughter, Mary Margaret Torres of Socorro, NM. A Memorial Service is being held at the Santuario de Guadalupe, on Agua Fria Street, Santa Fe, NM. The Service begins at 11:00 a.m. Attendees are asked to arrive early to assure an orderly beginning. Honorary Pallbearers are Steve A. Torres III, Erwin Aguilar, Edward J. Lopez, Jr., G. Anthony Gonzales III, Joshua Gonzales, Justin Beaver, Aaron Torres, and Gavin Torres.
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