Obituaries (June 26, 2025)

Wanda Erlene Alexander

1941-2025

Wanda Erlene Alexander was born Feb. 28, 1941, in Thatcher, Ariz. Wanda passed away on June 20, 2025, at her home in Bosque Farms, where she was surrounded by her loving family and two dogs.

Wanda married Phillip Nelson Alexander on Oct. 30, 1958, in Safford, Ariz. Wanda’s greatest joy was her children and grandchildren, Christopher N. Alexander, Randy and Rhonda Alexander (twins), Denise A. Alexander, husband, Robert Coonrod, Marcy L. Aguilar, husband, Tony Aguilar, Madison A. Rubio, Acen C. Aguilar, Anthony (Alex) Aguilar and Brian C. Alexander.

Wanda also enjoyed quilting, taking care of her flowers and spending time with her family. During Wanda’s 67 years of marriage, she and her husband enjoyed traveling and spending time at their cabin in Alpine, Ariz.

A graveside service is scheduled for 9 a.m., Monday, June 30, 2025, at the Thatcher Cemetery in Thatcher, Ariz.

Graveside services are being handled by Daniels Funeral Home in Rio Rancho, and Vining Funeral Home in Safford, Ariz.

Daniels Funerals and Cremation, 2400 Southern Blvd SE, Rio Rancho, NM, 87124, 505-891-9192.

Annadene Beall

1931-2025

Annadene Beall, 94, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 13, 2025, at her residence in Elephant Butte.

Annadene was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister and friend, known for her warm heart, vibrant personality and unwavering love for her family.

Annadene was born June 8, 1931, in Albuquerque, to Cecil Brown and Geneva Jellison. Annadene’s greatest joy in life came from spending time with her loved ones, especially her grandchildren, who were the light of her life. She was very social and loved being around people. She built strong and lasting friendships over the years and was the kind of person who never met a stranger.

Annadene worked at a bank for many years, and was a faithful member of the First Baptist Church of Bosque Farms. She will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Annadene is survived by her son, Bobby Lee Beall and his wife, Jan; grandchildren, Ryan Jack Beall, Billy Ray Beall, both of Elephant Butte, and Amber Beall, of Baton Rouge, La.; her brother, Lee Brown, of Santa Fe; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ray Jack Beall; and her sons, Billy Jack Beall and Garry Ray Beall.

Per Annadene’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no services will be held.

Arrangements are by Kirikos Family Funeral Home, Inc. & Sierra Crematory, LLC, 303 N. Cedar St., T. or C., NM 87901, 575-894-2574.

For online memorial messages, please visit kirikosfamilyfuneralhome.com.

Richard A. “Dick” Carbajal

1935-2025

Richard A. “Dick” Carbajal, age 90, a resident of Albuquerque, passed away peacefully on June 18, 2025.

Services will be held at Our Lady of Belen Catholic Church on Thursday, July 10, beginning with a visitation at 9 a.m., a Rosary and eulogy at 9:30 a.m., and a Funeral Mass to be celebrated at 10 a.m. Dick will be laid to rest at Santa Fe National Cemetery at 9:30 a.m., Friday, July 11, 2025.

He is preceded in death by his loving wife, Lois F. “Lara” Wilson Carbajal; sons, Richard Jr. and Donnie; parents, Barney Sr. and Emily “Reina” Baca Carbajal; and siblings, Barney Jr., Corinne and Ray.

Dick is survived by his children, Francine, David and Brian; grandchildren, BreAnna Grace, Dylan Justice and Daniel Jacob; sister-in-law, Della Dancer; brother-in-law, Don Shea (Bonnie); life-long friends, Benny and Mary Ellen Hodges, and Rose Ellen Guillen; and many nieces and nephews.

Dick was born in 1935 (Cinco de Mayo) in Belen. He met his wife, Lois “Lara” Wilson at the time, while attending Highlands University in Las Vegas, N.M. They were attracted to one another through the bond of music. She, a song-bird and pianist, and he, a stunning tenor saxophone player. Dick fell in love with not only a talented singer, but a beauty-pageant queen, becoming “Miss Hobbs” and representing New Mexico in the 1958 “Miss America Pageant.”

In their early years, Dick and Lara performed throughout New Mexico, singing and playing music together at many local venues. He was fortunate to marry Lara twice in his lifetime, and together they raised four beautiful and talented children.

As a proud veteran, Dick served honorably in the U.S. Army from June 17, 1955, to June 16, 1963. Following his military service, he continued a life of civic duty, serving as a New Mexico state representative for Valencia County for eight years.

Dick was widely recognized as a member of the “Mama Lucy Gang,” a group of progressive lawmakers who helped shape New Mexico’s future. In addition, he contributed to the education system through his long-standing service on the Belen Board of Education.

Before Dick’s political and business career as a State Farm insurance agent for 50 years, he began teaching music as a band-leader in Socorro. Music remained a lifelong passion, deeply woven into the Carbajal family.

Dick also had a deep love of football, serving on the sideline, “chain gang” for Belen High School Eagles for many years. “Go Irish!” If you knew Dick then you know that he never missed watching a game on TV, and was fortunate to attend a few live games. He was thrilled when they made the college football championship playoffs in 2025.

The Carbajal family extends a very special thank you to his caregiver, Clara Ortega, and the caring staff at Good Life Senior Living and Amber Care of NM, namely Amanda and Brittany.

Please sign Dick’s online tribute at romerofuneralhomenm.com. Romero Funeral Home, 609 N. Main St., Belen.

Loretta Garcia

1960-2025

Loretta Garcia, age 65, a resident of Albuquerque, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her loved ones on June 21, 2025.

Loretta was born to Daniel and Tina Garcia on May, 3, 1960, in Belen.

She is preceded in passing by her parents and her daughter, Victoria Garcia.

She is survived by her son, Mark Garcia and his spouse, Judy Gutierrez; grandchildren, Elijah Garcia, Jorden Garcia and Summer Garcia; and siblings, Teresa Trujillo, Francis Wells, Liza Baca and Terry Garcia.

Loretta was a loved and cherished matriarch of her family. She loved big and loved with her whole heart. Her children, grandchildren and pets, Desi and Lulu, were the light of her life. There was no “halfway” with Loretta, everything she set her mind to, she did it one hundred percent. She adored her grandchildren; they lit up her life!

She was proud of her daughter, Victoria; her son, Mark, and her daughter-in-law, Judy. She took every opportunity to boast to others about their accomplishments. She held everyone in her family close, and had special relationships with her siblings, as well.

Loretta was a talented and accomplished educator. She had a way with children and it was truly her passion. She even went as far as learning sign language to make sure every child felt “seen and heard.”

She enjoyed traveling, especially to Ruidoso, her favorite place. She had a special place in her heart for San Francisco, Colorado and every other place she had called home and poured her love into.

Loretta was full of life, full of love and full of the most amazing stories. Though she is gone, her presence will forever remain in the hearts that she touched. In the laughter of her grandchildren, the home she made beautiful, and in every cherished memory that includes her and will be carried forward forever.

Services for Loretta will take place on Monday, June 30, at Noblin Funeral Service Belen Chapel. A visitation will be held at 10:30 a.m., followed by a prayer service at 11 a.m.

Arrangements are being handled by the caring professionals at the Noblin Funeral Service Belen Chapel, where an online guest register is available at noblin.com.

Carolyn Gail Hancock (Kelly)

1946-2025

Carolyn Gail Hancock (Kelly), born Aug. 1, 1946, in Albuquerque, passed away at the age of 78, on June 16, 2025, at her home in Belen, with her loving and devoted husband, Allen, by her side.

Carolyn was a 1964 graduate of Grants High School. She went on to attend De Wolfe School of Cosmetology and obtained her cosmetology license. In 1979, she opened her own salon, the Inn Salon of Hair Design in Grants.

After moving to Valencia County in 1996, she worked for the Los Lunas Schools and Bosque Farms Elementary.

She loved being with her family, cooking for the holidays and going to Bible study at her church. She was an avid doll collector and was a member of the Desert Doll Club and the United Federation of Doll Collectors.

She met and married her husband of 59 years, Allen B. Hancock, on June 11, 1966. They went on to have three children, sons, Darrel (Amber) Hancock and Shawn (Missi) Hancock, and daughter, Deann (Ralph) McKinley. She also leaves a legacy of her grandchildren, Silas Hancock, Luke Hancock, Carl Hancock, Rachel (Vance) Ferraro and Sara (Michael) Roberts; and great-grandsons, Stetson Petty and Sterling Petty.

Carolyn will be greatly missed and forever in the hearts of her family and friends.

A funeral service for Carolyn was held on Friday, June 20, at the First Baptist Church of Belen.

Arrangements are being handled by the caring professionals at the Noblin Funeral Service Belen Chapel, where an online guest register is available at noblin.com.

Francisco Michael Salgado

2005-2025

Francisco Michael Salgado, affectionately known as “Kiko,” age 20, passed away on June 19, 2025, in Los Lunas.

Born on May 27, 2005, in Albuquerque, Kiko was cherished as a loving father, devoted son, brother and grandson.

Kiko is survived by his beloved children, Zayden and Zaylee, who were the center of his universe. He is also deeply missed by his father Fabian P. Salgado; mother, Eileen C. Salgado; his grandfathers, Michael Lente and Rito Hernandez; his brothers, Fabian A. Salgado and Felix D. Salgado; alongside many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends, who all held a special place in his big heart.

He was preceded in death by his stepfather, Max Montoya; and his grandmothers, Sylvia Lente and Susan Ybarra.

A man of great character, Kiko was known for his fierce loyalty and protective nature towards his family, always putting their needs above his own. His infectious sense of humor and giant heart endeared him to everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Kiko had a passion for working on cars and boxing, but above all, he treasured spending time with his beloved kids.

A service to celebrate Kiko’s life will be held at 9 a.m., Monday, June 30, at San Clemente Catholic Church, 244 Luna Ave. NE, Los Lunas, with burial following at Los Lentes Cemetery. Relatives and friends are invited to a reception at S&J Rental Hall, 544 Main St. NW, Los Lunas.

In remembrance of Francisco, we find solace in Psalm 23, trusting that he dwells in eternal peace and love.

“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.” Amen.

Lorraine E. Sanchez

1942-2025

Our beloved mother, grandmother, sister and friend, Lorraine “Lori” Eugenia Sanchez departed this life peacefully on Sunday, June 15, 2025, at the age of 83, surrounded by her loving family in the comfort of her home.

Lorraine was born March 12, 1942, in Arroyo Hondo, N.M. to Eufelio and Adonelia Sanchez. She was raised in Taos, N.M., and in 2002 made her home in Peralta, where she lived until her passing.

Lorraine was a woman of faith, strength, independence and boundless love for her family and community. She was the cornerstone of her family and left a lasting impact on everyone who knew her as a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, teacher, friend, business owner.

Lorraine earned both a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Education from New Mexico Highlands University. She was an educator with Taos Municipal Schools until retirement in 1993. While teaching, she also ran a small gift and souvenir shop called Eugenia’s.

After retirement, Lorraine pursued a second career as a licensed massage therapist, opening The Gift of Touch Therapeutic Massage, where she provided healing and comfort.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Eufelio and Adonelia Sanchez; her brothers, Gilbert, Arthur and Christopher Sanchez; brother-in-law, Isaac Gonzales; and granddaughters, Santana Cordova and Marisol Mondragon.

She is survived by her loving children, Leonard Mondragon (Carla), DiAne Archuleta (Edward) and Joyce Collins (Rodney); her grandchildren, Jules Pinzon (Rene), Santiago Cordova (Gabriela), Norene Day (Terrence), Elisha Thomas, LoriAnn Archuleta, Jondiego Archuleta, Joseph Dominguez, Estrella Dominguez and Moises Mondragon; great-grandchildren, Anthony,James, Juliana and Isaiah Pinzon, Zailynn and Zuriah Thomas, Ava and Rhodes Day, and baby Zeveyah Cordova, who is expected soon. She also leaves behind great-great granddaughter, Aaliyah Pinzon; siblings, Erlinda Gonzales, Virginia Ibarra (John) and Eddie Sanchez (Cheryl); sisters-in-law, Lena Sanchez and Theresita Mascareñas; aunt, Crucita Valencia; and uncle, Jessie (Josie) Sanchez; several nieces, nephews, and ahijados, countless extended family and dear friends.

A public visitation was held on Tuesday, June 24, in the Evergreen Chapel of DeVargas Funeral Home of Taos. A Rosary was recited at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Taos on June 24, and a Mass of Christian burial was held Wednesday, June 25, with burial to follow at the Sierra Vista Cemetery.

The family of Lorraine has entrusted the care of their loved one to the caring staff of DeVargas Funeral Home of Taos, devargastaos.com.

Mario Antonio Santiago

1954-2025

Mario Antonio Santiago, born on Oct. 31, 1954, in Albuquerque, peacefully began his eternal journey on June 17, 2025.

Mario was a fun-loving prankster whose unrestrained spirit was legendary and contagious. He could throw an entire group of people into hysterics with a simple offhand comment while walking into the room.

Mario leaves behind his wife and partner of 11 years, Karla Laurie; three children, whom he was so immensely proud, son, Moses (Jessica) and Mario’s grandchildren, Jordan (also godson) and Mario’s great-granddaughters, Mackenzie and Melonie; as well as grandchildren, D’yon, Mya and lil’ Moses; daughter, Selina and Mario’s granddaughter, Lauryn; and son, Carlos (Monica) and Mario’s grandchildren, Lucas, L’eah and Roman. Also surviving him are his nine amazing siblings, including his brother, Mark and sons, Jason and Javier, sister, Johnnina (Bob) and children, Feliz and Adan, sister, Joanne, aka “George,” and sons, Domingo and Emiliano, brother, Michael (Maurice) and children, Jon Michael and Megan, sister, Jude (Michael) and sons, Esequiel and Diego, brother-in-law, Hunter and children Damion, Josh and Nina, sister, Cinnie (Robert) and children, Bobbi Jo, Gabriella, Simone, Francisco and Santiago, sister, Jackie (Michael) and daughters, Desiree, Adrianne (Mario’s goddaughter) and Bernadette, brother, Matthew (Alexis) and sons, Jarreau and Tyler, and sister, Maura (Stacey) and children, Jazmine, Miles and Quincy; as well as a joyful group of great nieces and nephews.

Awaiting Mario in heaven are all his grandparents, aunties, uncles, cousins and especially his parents, Juan and Nina; his brother-in-law, Joe; and special sister, Rita.

Mario graduated from Albuquerque High School in 1972, earning a letter award and New Mexico Activities Association certificate and medal as a member of the Albuquerque High Bulldogs 1971 State Championship Boys Basketball Team.

In 1977, Mario proudly joined the U.S. Navy. He served aboard the USS John F. Kennedy Aircraft Carrier, deployed in the Mediterranean Sea with many fond memories and received an honorable discharge in 1981.

He joined the Albuquerque Fire Department in 1982 and proudly served as a driver, firefighter and EMT. He retired in 2002 from his beloved Station No. 14. He will be remembered there for his legendary culinary ability, outrageous antics and sense of humor.

Mario enjoyed lifetime friendships from these endeavors as evident in his choice of pallbearers: Ralph Ortega (Lucy), from childhood and also AFD; James Garcia (Rhea), from childhood; Paul Garcia (Doreen), from the USS JFK; Will Mora (Sandra), from AFD; Marcos Salaz (Patti), from AFD; and Kelly Russell (Kay), longtime friends and neighbors.

Mario had a supercharged dose of charisma, which was on display at any gathering and especially on the golf course. In his retirement years, he also proved himself as an accomplished painter, displaying and selling his work through the Belen Art League. He and Karla had the honor multiple times of being featured artists in the front window display at the Belen Art League.

Arrangements are being handled by the caring professionals at the Noblin Funeral Service Belen Chapel, where arrangements are available at noblin.com.