Carol Gallegos

Sept. 14, 1949 — Nov. 18, 2008

DURANGO — Longtime Durango resident, Carol Gallegos, died at her home on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2008, after a battle with Ocular Melanoma. She was 59.

A Southwest Colorado native, Carol was born on Sept. 14, 1949, in Montrose to Jeronimo and Dorothy McWilliams. She graduated from Montrose High School in 1967, and lived in the area most of her life.

Carol married her high school sweetheart, Julian Gallegos, on Dec. 30, 1967, in Montrose. The couple lived in Denver and then moved to Durango in 1977 where they raised their family.

She worked primarily as a pre-school teacher, and was also a longtime employee for the 9-R school district.  She worked for several years as a sign language interpreter.

With an open door for anyone who needed it, Carol shared her life, home and love with all of her family and friends. She lived her life without judgment and was always supportive.          

Alongside her husband, Julian, she restored several properties throughout her life and was a hands-on worker, but what she enjoyed most was spending time in her backyard with her family. Carol and Julian moved her mother, Dorothy, to Colorado in 2003. Carol and Dorothy spent much of their time together.

Carol and her husband were devoted to one another. She enjoyed all of their time together and was always grateful for his kindness, patience and love throughout all that they shared.  

She was the cornerstone of our family and will be greatly missed and always loved. We were blessed to share her life.

Carol was preceded in death by her father, Jeronimo McWilliams.

She is survived by her husband, Julian Gallegos; children, Jered and Audra Gallegos, of Seattle, Wash.; Tara Gallegos and Tiffiny Rhodes, both of Durango, Colo.; grandchildren, Kaitie and Garret Rhodes and Luisa Gallegos; her mother, Dorothy McWilliams; sister, Betty Gomez; brother, Mike McWilliams and numerous nieces and nephews.

A private service for immediate family was held at her home. A memorial service will be in the spring.

In lieu of flowers memorial contribution may be made to a charity of your choice.