Garda Iris Stock

Garda Iris Walker Stock, affectionately known as Gert, age 90, passed away on Friday, May 10, 2024, in Waterflow, New Mexico from causes incident to age. She lived life to the fullest, overcoming many trials through her courage, wit, and personal fortitude. She accomplished much through hard work and her untiring energy. She was loved by all who knew her.

 Garda was born in Ramah, New Mexico to Lawrence O’dell Marsh and Viola Davis Marsh on April 28, 1934, and raised by Frank Leroy Walker and Viola Davis Walker. She spent most of her childhood years in Ramah, as well as Montana and North Carolina, before her family moved to Waterflow where she attended Kirtland Central High School and met the love of her life. 

 Garda married John Oliver Stock Jr. on June 3, 1952, for time and all eternity, in the Mesa Arizona Temple. When Oliver was drafted to serve his country in the Army during the Korean War, Garda stayed in New Mexico and welcomed their first child. Upon the end of the war, she and Oliver made Jewett Valley, now known as Waterflow, their home to raise their growing family. 

 Garda loved her family. She cherished and was tremendously proud of them. She created traditions, memories, and legacies that will be carried on for generations. It meant everything to her for her family to be happy. 

 Garda was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and took joy in being active and in serving in many callings through the years. It was through church that her love of music flourished. She loved going to the temple. Beyond her church callings, she used the many skills she developed throughout her life to help others around her in any way she could. 

 Garda leaves behind a wonderful example of service and a legacy of love to her posterity. 

 She is survived her five daughters, Cheryl (Jeff) Hunt, Lisa (Shawn) Freebairn, Candy (Brad) Ashcroft, Wendy (Steve) Brawn, and Kristy; three sons, John (Francine), Tracy (Cyndy), and Ed; 30 grandchildren; 47 great grandchildren; 5 great great grandchilden; one sister, Harriett (Reed) Guymon; and brothers, John (Janice), Grady, and Joseph (Debbie). 

 She was preceded in death by her eternal companion, Oliver; her parents, Lawrence, Viola, and Frank; sister, LaRue; brother-in-law, Lee; sister-in-law, Alene; daughter-in-law, Marilyn; grandchild, Sarah; and her loyal dog, Dog.

 Pallbearers are Caleb Braden Ashcroft, Logan Bryce Ashcroft, Joshua Shawn Freebairn, Jacob Ryan Hunt, Brandon Tyler Hunt, Spencer Scott Hunt, Cooper James Wethington, and Trace Oliver Wethington.

 Garda’s family would like to thank the staff of Guardian Angel for their kind, devoted, and sensitive care during her short hospice journey. They are among the unsung heroes whose assistance contributes to the goodness of humankind. 

 Services will be held on Saturday, May 18 at 10:00 am at the Kirtland Stake Center, 10 Road 6523, Kirtland, New Mexico. A viewing will be held prior to services from 9:00 am to 9:45 am at the church. Interment will be in the Kirtland Cemetery, 57 Road 6580, Kirtland, New Mexico.