BERNICE BINNS, 84

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After fighting a 15-year battle of muscle and nerve degeneration, Iva Bernice Binns, 84, went peacefully home to Heaven surrounded by her family on July 2, 2023. She was born in Bell County, Texas, Aug. 16, 1938, then moved to Las Cruces, New Mexico. She graduated from Las Cruces High School in 1957 and studied art at New Mexico State University.

Eddie Binns stole her heart in 1956 and they were married June 2, 1957, in the First Christian Church of Las Cruces. They were best friends and each other’s hidden strength for 66 years. Their love was a true love for all to witness. Eddie was the most important person in her life. They were soulmates right up to her last precious moments here on Earth. Her mind remained sharp as she was an avid crossword puzzle player and could beat Eddie at playing dominos any day.

Bernice was an energetic, loving homemaker, and mother not only to their own four children, but she was there for all children. One of her most important goals was leading a Christian life and spreading joy. She touched many lives with her giving nature. Her two top passions were watercoloring and helping any way she could with her children’s lives, such as classroom art projects, after school activities, Girl Scout troop leader and being an active band parent to name just a few of her endeavors.

Bernice was a strong supporter of her husband’s business activities and was involved in all aspects. She was an avid enjoyer of the outdoors and her hobbies included snow skiing, scuba diving, horseback riding, biking, gardening, sewing, boating, swimming, camping and rock hunting with her family. She was fearless to try new activities and travel to any ocean. She was adamant that her entire family attend a cruise to the Bahamas for their 60th anniversary, which they thoroughly enjoyed because it made her so happy.

Bernice was a hopeless romantic as she enjoyed music, art, theater, and conversations over a glass of wine. Her favorites have always been her family, and we will grieve not but find strength in her memory. Bernice designed a life of love, which she shared unconditionally. Her pride in her family was unmeasurable. Bernice’s kindness will be remembered by the many lives she has touched. She only asked that you pass it on. The many photos she cherished and was happy to share with others show her love of family and adventure. She lived a beautiful, full life, and she lived her motto:

“Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well-preserved body, but rather to slide in broadsided, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and proclaiming, ‘Wow! What a ride!’”

Bernice is survived by her loving husband of 66 years, two sons, two daughters, 13 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, plus one on the way, and the family dog, Riley.

Son Michael Binns, wife Patricia, his children, Devin Binns and Mia Binns with previous wife Cristina.
Daughter Cynthia Binns-Mendoza, husband Xavier Mendoza, children Roman, Dominic, Zachary, Christopher, grandchildren Clarabellla, Xander and Zyon.

Daughter Karen Binns-DiCamillo, husband Roger DiCamillo, children Nicholas and his wife Brandi, Jessica and her husband Daniel Torres, grandchild Joslyn.

Son David Binns, wife Tara, children Gage, Garrett, Chase, Cameron, Ashley and her husband Seth, grandchild on the way.

Cousin Carl Renfro. We all want to give a huge Thank You to her caregiver, Liz Mendoza, who became our mother’s dear friend during their long days. Also we would like to recognize the compassion and care given to Bernice by the staff at Memorial Medical Center.

We will celebrate her life on her 85th birthday, Aug. 16, 2023, at the Grapevine Plaza, 3900 W. Picacho Ave., Las Cruces, starting at 6 p.m. Everyone who knew her and would like to share is welcome to join the family remembering Bernice Binns as she now dances in Heaven and paints the clouds.