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In loving memory of Mary Ann (Crouse) Landers, let it be known she was a beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, grandmother, and friend, who outlived and grieved for some, while leaving behind those of us who now mourn our loss. Throughout her final days of failing health trauma, ever by her side with hand engulfing hers, Mary’s son William/Billy eased her life/death painless passage, a blessed transference by the wings of love.
Mary and her twin sister, Jean, were born on April 23, 1947, in Olean, NY and placed in foster care. At the age of 3, they were adopted by their now parents, Charles and Leona Crouse of Gowanda, NY where they grew up and graduated high school in 1965. Staying entwined, their paths separated in the adult world, but Mary and Jean remained constantly in touch until Jean’s death in 2020.
Adventuresome Mary joined the Army ranks, enlisting in the Women’s Army Corps (WAC), serving our Country while stationed at Ft. McClellan, AL and Ft. Bragg, NC; overseas at Orleans, France and Landstuhl, Germany, after which Mary was honorably discharged.
In 1970, following a brief 1st marriage, Mary relocated to Alamogordo, where she met and married her 2nd husband, John Rauch. It was during this marriage, and at the age of 38, she gave birth to her only child, William/Billy in 1985. Following tumultuous ‘life stuff’ times, Mary met and married the love of her life, the father of five grown children, Aubry “Jack” Landers. Mary and Jack made their home in La Luz, raising Billy together and loving life as a family.
For many years, Mary worked at Hollomon Air Force Base (including 6585th Test Group and the Base Chapel), Gibsons, TG&Y, Presto Products, and Otero County Courthouse. She also volunteered with the GCRMC Volunteers as a pink lady working in the gift shop.
Mary leaves behind her beloved son, William/Billy Rauch and his life partner, Amanda Silva; grandson, Max Silva (son of Billy and Amanda); stepsons, Pete Landers (San Antonio, TX), Robert Landers (AZ), Steve Landers (Alamogordo), and Jacklyn Landers; brother-in-law, Alfred Vasquez Sr; nephew, Alfred Vasquez Jr. and his lovely wife Holly, and their daughter, Ariel, her great niece, who was the most precious gem to Mary; best friend, Cindy Yruegas.
Mary was preceded in death by late husband, Aubrey “Jack” Landers; parents, Charles and Leona Joslen Crouse; twin sister, Jean Vasquez; stepson, Jack E Landers; as well as many extended family members.
Mary was a beautiful mother who never stopped teaching us life lessons. Even after her death, we continue to learn from her. In her last days before the Lord took her, she showed such amazing strength and was so determined to live. Mary fought until the very last minute. Although death ended her fight, she’ll forever live on in our memories. Her contagious laugh was as unique as her beauty. Her smile could light up any dark room, and she never knew a stranger. Mary looked forward to her daily outings with her son, whether it was to go to her favorite dentist (Dr Dean) or to go shopping for a new blouse. Her favorite thing was getting her hair done by her favorite hairdresser and dear friend, Leah. On special occasions, her grandson, Max, got to spend extra time with her; they were equally ornery. Every day spent together was a real treat to Mary as well as her son and his family. This mother and son bond was very unique; it was beautiful, like the bestest friends. Mary will be so greatly missed and will always live in our hearts.
The Memorial Service for Mary Landers will be held at 10:00 am, Friday, May 15, 2026, at Alamogordo Funeral Home.
Her son, Billy, has entrusted his loved one to the care of the Alamogordo Funeral Home to direct the arrangements.
