Vega M. Nilsson, a long-time resident of Artesia, New Mexico passed away at home on December 29, 2025, at the age of 87.  Vega was born in Brooklyn, New York to Fredrik and Hilda Nilsson, who immigrated from Sweden.  Vega embraced a life of adventure, living along the East Coast from New Jersey to Florida, before moving west to the state of Washington and ultimately to Alaska.  Vega proudly served in both the United States Air Force and Air National Guard.  Vega worked in both private companies and federal government, ranging from banking positions to the U.S. Forest Service.  Vega loved oceans and coastal communities, but was equally at peace in the high mountain forests.  After a near-crippling bout with Guillain-Barre Syndrome and doctor’s orders to move to a warmer and drier climate, Vega set off on one last adventure and a relocation to the welcoming community of Artesia.  A life-long learner, Vega achieved her goal of a college diploma at the age of 74 from the University of the Southwest.  Vega was preceded in death by her parents, her twin brother Folke, and a son Dwayne Lyons, and is survived by her son Brad Lyons of Hudsonville, Michigan.