Lorena Mae (Abeita) Charles

Lorena Mae (Abeita) Charles, beloved wife, mother, sister, and friend, passed away on June 23, 2024, at the age of 75. Born on December 13, 1948, in Crownpoint, New Mexico to Howard and Mary (Charley) Abeita. Lorena was the third of thirteen siblings. She grew up in Crownpoint, where she graduated from high school and played a significant role as a mother figure to her younger brothers and sisters. In her youth, Lorena's adventurous spirit was evident as she enjoyed riding her horse, Brownie and other broncs with enthusiasm and skill. It was in Crownpoint that Lorena met the love of her life, Cameron R. Charles, Sr. They met when she was working at the summer hamburger stand for the chapter house and he kept coming to see her, so she would buy his burgers out of her checks. The two were married on September 5, 1970 and soon after they began their family and relocated to Dallas, Texas. In Dallas, Lorena and Cameron formed many enduring friendships with a number of families Martinez, Begay, Yellowfish, Frazier, and Rogers, among many others. Lorena's career continued as she took on administrative responsibilities at the public library and pursued further education by attending El Centro College in Dallas. She was actively involved in her children's lives, coaching their soccer and basketball teams, and  later continued her administrative work in law enforcement with the Grand Prairie, TX Police Department until her retirement. A passionate cook and gracious hostess, Lorena loved preparing grand holiday meals for the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas, birthdays, and family reunions. She loved entertaining out-of-town family and often took them to Gilley's Dallas and Billy Bob's Fort Worth, sharing her joy of life and love. Lorena was also an avid traveler, having explored many states including New York and Tennessee, visited many of the national parks across the Midwest, and enjoyed the magic of Disneyland. Her family cherishes memories of their large group trips, caravaning to their next adventure. She also has been an active grandma helping with concession stands, and cookie selling with any grandchild that asked her to assist. She had a creative eye with her sewing, craft creations and painting with a twist. Lorena leaves behind a legacy of love, warmth, and generosity. Her memory will be forever treasured by her family, and her numerous friends. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her parents Howard and Mary Abeita; husband Cameron R. Charles Sr; siblings: Roger Abeita, Emerson Abeita, Rosita Rodriguez, Maryann Abeita, Marvin Abeita, Debra Abeita and Roselynn Abeita; Annie Charley;  son-in-law Justin Carlisle and Barbara Murphy.

She is survived by her children: Carmalisa and husband Marc Maples, Carletta and Narcizo  Granado III, Cheryl Charles, Cameron R. Charles Jr; grandchildren: Narcizo Granado IV, Rain Carlisle, Benito Granado, Aurora Carlisle, Ariana Granado, Abrianna Maples, Charles Maples, Cheyenne Charles, Skylar Charles, Winter Storm Carlisle, Autumn Rose Carlisle, Donald Murphy and Joshua Murphy; siblings: Vivian Hubbard, Jimmy Abeita, Vaida Black, Harrison Martin, Velma Abeita, Laverne Watchman, Ernest Abeita, Vern Abeita and Sheila Trujillo; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and other extended family members and friends.

Visitation will be 10 AM Saturday, June 29 at the Waxahachie Church of Jesus Christ of latter-day Saints

Funeral service will be 11 AM Saturday, June 29 at the Waxahachie Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Bishop Jason Holloway officiating.
Committal service will be 1 PM Saturday, June 29 at Cedar Hill Memorial Park, Arlington, Texas.

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