Ellen Gundlock, 64, of Farmington, New Mexico, passed away suddenly on the afternoon of January 4, 2026, after a perfect lunch with some of her favorite people.

Ellie was born on June 13, 1961, in El Paso, Texas, en route to her home state of Colorado. At the age of four, her family made Farmington their home, where she would go on to build a life filled with creativity, connection, and joy. She graduated from Farmington High School in 1979 and soon followed her passion by becoming a cosmetologist—a career that was never “just a job,” but a true calling.

Over her decades-long career, Ellie was deeply involved in the cosmetology world. She competed in hair shows across the country, earning multiple awards and recognition in several categories. To say she loved doing hair is an understatement. Ellie adored her work, her coworkers, and her clients, many of whom became cherished friends. Her chair was a place of laughter and genuine connection.

Ellie was a bright light in the world—smart, hilarious, generous, and beautiful inside and out. She loved her garden and plants, and flowers of every kind. Spring and summer were her favorite seasons, and she loved being surrounded by flowers and warmth. She lived life to the fullest every single day and always had something going on, whether it was shopping, visiting with friends, taking road trips, attending concerts, or enjoying her absolute favorite pastime: going to lunch.

She fiercely loved her family and friends with her whole heart, and nothing brought Ellie more joy than her two grandchildren, whom she adored beyond measure. She video-chatted with them as often as possible, soaking up every moment and reminding everyone around her how much they meant to her.

Ellie’s precious giggle, infectious laugh, sweetness, spice, and zest for life will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her strength, independence, and fearless way of living were an inspiration to many, and her memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those she loved.

Ellie was preceded in death by her parents, Alex and Elizabeth Romero; maternal grandparents, Juan and Noemi Lobato; and paternal grandparents, Alejandreno and Eloisa Romero. She is survived by her daughters, Jaimus Zunner (Kimberly) and Whitney Francis (Adam); her grandchildren, Bailey and Brady Francis; her brothers, Joseph Garcia (Elaine), Alex Romero (Charlie); her sister, Elizabeth Ley; and her nephews, Noah Berry, Jesse Berry, Anthony Romero, Alex Garcia, and Joey Garcia.

A Celebration of Ellie’s Life will be held at 12:00 p.m. on her birthday, June 13, 2026, at Memories Event Venue, 71 Road 5324, Farmington, NM 87401. Ongoing information can also be found on her Facebook page.

“Through flowers and blossoms, she loved the world—and sprinkled their joy throughout our lives.”