Elizabeth F Leija Obituary (1950 - 2025) - Commerce City , Colorado

Elizabeth “Liz” Leija, 74, of Grand Junction, Colorado, entered into eternal rest on August 30, 2025. She was born on September 12, 1950, in Mead, Colorado, to Onesimo Vigil and Flora Roybal Vigil. Liz grew up in Greeley, Colorado, where her love for serving others was nurtured in her local church. It was there that she met the love of her life, Ezequiel “Zeke” Leija. The two were united in marriage on September 28, 1974, beginning a lifelong partnership in both love and ministry. Together, Liz and Zeke pastored Aposento Alto in Milliken, Colorado, and raised their two beloved children. Their firstborn, Adrian Leija, arrived on June 24, 1975, followed by their daughter, Becky Leija Garcia, on June 1, 1978. Family and faith guided their journey, as they traveled to various cities answering the call of God in ministry. They pastored at Aposento Alto in Milliken, CO; Racetrack Chaplaincy in Chicago, IL; Templo Jerusalem in Gill, CO; Zion Assembly in Grand Junction, CO; Central District Offices in Denver, CO; and Templo Gethsemani in Commerce City, CO. Liz faithfully stood beside Zeke as his unwavering source of strength and support. She served in many capacities throughout their ministry—including as Women’s Director, Children’s Director, Worship Leader, and countless other roles. Her heart for people was evident; she was always ready to lend a listening ear, offer encouragement, and lift others up in prayer. Liz was deeply committed to her intercessory prayer group at Zion Assembly of God in Grand Junction, where her compassion and faith impacted many lives. When Zeke accepted the call to serve as Secretary Treasurer for the Central Latin District Offices, Liz once again supported his work wholeheartedly, answering phones, preparing mailings, and standing by him as his true helpmate. Their bond was inseparable, built on a foundation of love and shared devotion. After Zeke’s passing on September 1, 2024, Liz’s heart remained tied to his. When asked if she would like another pastor to give her communion, she gently replied that Zeke was the only pastor to do so for 50 years, and no one else could take his place. Liz is survived by her children: Adrian (Angela) Leija of Denver, CO, and Becky (Josh) Garcia of Denver, CO; her ten cherished grandchildren; and two soon-to-be-born great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Rita Lopez of Greeley, CO, and her brother, David (Alma) Vigil of Greeley, CO, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family, and countless friends. A viewing will be held on Friday, September 12, 2025, at Templo Gethsemani, 6690 Monaco Street, Commerce City, CO 80022, at 6:00 p.m., followed by a celebration of her life at 7:00 p.m. Interment will take place the next day at Grand Junction Memorial Gardens, 2970 North Ave, Grand Junction, CO 81504, at 2:00 p.m. Liz’s life was a testimony of faith, service, and love. She leaves behind a legacy of devotion to God, her family, and her community that will continue to inspire all who knew her.