Helen “Monsie” 82 years old, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 16, 2026, in the comfort of her home after a long and courageous battle with cancer. 

Helen “Monsie” Flores Savoie was born on July 12, 1943, in Tularosa, the eleventh of twelve children born to Amelia Gamboa Flores and Enrique Flores. During her youth, she attended Tularosa High School, where she formed many lifelong friendships. In 1960, she was honored as the Tularosa Fiesta Queen. Helen was active in her school community, participating in the high school band and serving as a member of the Future Homemakers of America, graduating in 1961.

Following her first marriage, Helen moved to Alamogordo, where she helped manage Mr. A Steakhouse & Lounge. Later, she relocated to Santa Barbara for a short time and worked for Southern California Gas Company. During her years in California, Helen founded the Cottage Children’s Center, a daycare created to support the children of individuals involved with Alcoholics Anonymous. Her dedication and compassion led to her receiving a Humanitarian Award in 1987.

Upon returning to Alamogordo, Helen became actively involved in local politics and advocacy. Her passion for serving others led to her appointment as Commissioner of the Blind, a role she proudly held for several years, earning recognition from the Governor of New Mexico for her service.

Above all, Helen treasured her family. She loved spending quality time with her children, grandchildren, and loved ones. She often took her grandchildren to the movies, enjoyed relaxing afternoons eating lunch at the park, and loved taking walks with her beloved dogs, Baby and Chico. Family dinners, holiday gatherings, and celebrations brought her immense joy. Helen was always known for her elegance and style, often dressed in sequins, her favorite prints, fashionable coats, and her signature high heels. Even in later years, her spirit and energy rarely slowed her down. Her warmth, generosity, and welcoming nature will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Amelia Gamboa Flores and Enrique Flores; several brothers and sisters; her beloved son, Albert G. Armijo.

Helen is survived by her daughter, Juli Anna Estrada and husband Mario, along with their 3 children, Erica, Alexandra, and Mario; her son, J. Terrence Armijo and wife Tina, along with their 3 children, Taylor, Ava, and Terrence; as well as her late son Albert Armijo’s  3 children, Briana LaFever, Jerry “Munster” Armijo and Albert “Blue.” Armijo. She also leaves behind many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, great grandchildren, and a great-great grandchild.

Helen will be laid to rest at St. Jude Parish, where she will continue to be remembered, loved, and honored by all whose lives she touched.

Rosary will be recited at 10:15 am on Friday, June 5, 2026, at St. Jude Parish Catholic Church with mass celebrated at 11:00 am.

The Savoie family has entrusted their loved one to the care of Alamogordo Funeral Home and PCS Direct Cremation Service for direct cremation.