Frank M. Herrera

Frank M. Herrera

1932-2024

With sadness, we share the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, Frank M. Herrera, who left us peacefully on May 25, 2024, with his wife, Nellie, holding his hand at his side.

Mass of the Resurrection too place on Tuesday, June 4, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Mission in Los Chavez. Interment followed at Our Lady of Belen Memorial Gardens.

Married for 70 years, their love laid the foundation for their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Growing up in the North Valley near Rio Grande and Chavez Road, working his father’s dairy farm, Frank and his brothers enjoyed racing modified cars against the Unsers early days.

He graduated from Albuquerque Business College, where he met his wife, Nellie. They married in 1954 at Our Lady of Belen Catholic Church. From 1966-70, he gained popularity as a state representative for Valencia County, as well as the house chaplain, and whole-heartedly pursued legislation for the betterment of the community. Some of those include beginning the process to bring a branch of the University of Albuquerque to Rio Communities, establishing the Dennis Chavez Elementary School name change, partnering to establish the Los Chavez Fire Department and many more.

A lasting legacy was established when he successfully sponsored the first White Cane Law in the United States in protection of blind pedestrians. He remained in active leadership in community affairs for many years.

After his legislative terms, he and Nellie took in six foster children, ages 2 to 12, and raised them for six years until they were successfully adopted. Together, Frank and Nellie taught and supported their own sons, Steve and Richard, in many disciplines from farming to music, leadership to ministry, work ethics to comedy.

They enjoyed countless activities, including international cruises and square-dancing, even winning a few blue ribbons for the jitterbug. A successful entrepreneur, Frank’s love of sales took him and Nellie across the country meeting and creating lasting friendships.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Tomas and Manuela; and siblings, Josie, Tomas, Jesus and Benny; and survived by his wife, Manuela (Nellie); sons, Stephen (Celeste) and Richard (Linda); grandchildren, Jesse (Michelle), Joshua (Taylor), Bethany (Michael) and Shelby; five great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

The Herrera family would like to extend special and sincere gratitude to staff and specialists at Gentiva Hospice, Woodmark at Uptown Assisted Living, as well as friends and relatives for their help and support during difficult times. Please sign Frank’s online tribute at romerofuneralhomenm.com. Romero Funeral Home, 609 N. Main St., Belen.