Friends And Family Remember Slain El Paso Couple
This weekend, loved ones remembered the El Paso couple killed in Juarez.
Friends and family of Lesley Enriquez Redelfsand Arthur Redelfs gathered Saturday at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in West El Paso.
Inside, they heard stories of the couple’s childhood and their life. Art’s brother Reuben talked about how as the youngest brother of five siblings, Art was always protected.
Reuben described him as a gentle boy who, after one Thanksgiving, learned the turkey had to be killed – and became a vegetarian.
Then, as an adult, his coworkers said he was a pure gentleman who never cursed – a man of integrity and faith.
“When I think of Art, I think of family,” Reuben said about his little brother, who left behind little seven-month-old Rebecca, a daughter Lesley and Art adored and called “sweet pea”.
With a strong family bond, “Lesley made him a better man,” said Art’s brother.
Lesley’s cousin described her as a devoted mother, and everyone agreed – she always gave you bear hugs.
And their loved ones said both of them are now with their parents. Lesley lost her mom and dad a few years ago; Art lost his father at the tender age of six.
As the last goodbyes were said and the pain seemed never-ending, the couple’s family said all they have to do is remember Lesley’s infectious laugh and Art’s loving ways – the way they constantly rescued stray dogs, loved and nurtured their daughter.
They also remembered the son who was on the way, and the couple’s zest for life.
A life cut short – by a drug war that rages on – while a family holds on to the memories that will forever unite them.
Church officials estimate there were about 900 people at the funeral. So many people attended, the church officials had to open up a gymnasium behind the chapel to accommodate everyone who sought comfort in remembering Lesley and Art.
Sheriff Richard Wiles, State Representative Marisa Marquez, and the FBI Special Agent-In-Charge for the El Paso area also attended the funeral.
