Lottie Marie Curtsinger

Lottie Marie Curtsinger, 96, passed away peacefully on November 20, 2023 at Belmont Lodge Healthcare Center in Pueblo, CO. She was born March 27, 1927, in Pryor, Oklahoma to Millard and Lottie (Jefferies) Curtsinger. Lottie Marie was the eldest of three children. Seeking better opportunity, the family left Oklahoma for Colorado, eventually settling near Swink, CO where Marie graduated from Swink High School in 1946.

A woman of strong and independent spirit, Marie loved and was loved by many. Even as she neared the end of her life, she won new friends at her health care facility and inspired many with her grace, humor, and determination.

Marie spent her adult life in La Junta. Instrumental in the operation of what, at the time, was the largest Woolworth store west of the Mississippi River, Marie retired from F. W. Woolworth Co. after 45 years as office manager and bookkeeper.

As a child, Marie survived a bout of pneumonia from which she was not expected to recover. That experience left her with an appreciation for the wonder of life. She valued nature, and as an adult spent hours exploring the “south country” of Otero County with her parents. She also enjoyed flower gardening and backyard bird-feeding.

Marie adored her cats, especially Bandita her beloved companion. Marie was an accomplished seamstress and a skilled embroiderer, crafting dozens of embroidered tea towels each year for the La Junta United Methodist Church Holiday Bazaar. She was an active member of the church and of United Methodist Women. Marie volunteered for many years at Crossroads Marketplace, making friends and serving others.

Marie cherished her family. She remained close to her parents and to her brother Leland Curtsinger and her sister Betty Gotte. Her nieces and nephews were blessed by her kindness and generosity.

For many of her retirement years, Marie lived at the Casa Del Sol retirement center. There she was part of a close-knit community of friends whose companionship meant the world to her.

Marie is survived by three nieces, three nephews, and numerous grand and great-grand nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, and a nephew.

Her family thanks the staff at Belmont Lodge in Pueblo who cared for her during her last two years. So many of you have expressed your love for her, and she loved you.

The professional, compassionate care provided by Gentiva Hospice was a comfort to both Marie and her family during her final days. We are forever grateful to you.

Graveside service will be held Wednesday, November 29, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at Fairview Cemetery in La Junta with Reverend Lynne Tabb of the United Methodist Church officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday, November 28, 2023, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Peacock Memorial Chapel.

Peacock-Larsen Funeral Home & Arkansas Valley Crematory is in charge of arrangements.