Obituaries (March 13, 2025)

Chriselda “Chrissy” Padilla Garcia

1955-2025

Chriselda “Chrissy” Padilla Garcia, age 70, a life long resident of Belen, peacefully passed away on Monday, March 10, 2025.

Services will take place at Romero Funeral Home Chapel on Thursday, March 20, beginning with a visitation at 5 p.m., followed by a Rosary at 6 p.m. Services will be held at Our Lady of Belen Catholic Church on Friday, March 21, with a final visitation at 9 a.m., and a Funeral Mass to be celebrated at 10 a.m. Interment will follow at Our Lady of Belen Memorial Gardens.

Chrissy is survived by her four loving siblings, John Padilla (Angela), Lorraine Spradling, Tenci Torres (Pete) and Josephine Padilla; and many loving cousins, nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Eloy G. and Martina Diaz Padilla; brother, Eloy Padilla Jr.; nephews, Jonathan Spradling and Julian Torres; and her in-laws, John Spradling and Georgeanne Padilla.

Chrissy was a member of Our Lady of Belen Catholic Church. She was a caregiver most of her adult life but her pride and joy was being the caregiver for her late parents.

Chrissy was a free spirit who shared herself with everyone. Her generosity was unsurpassed and her love touched all who were around her.

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

Paul Griego

1937-2025

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Paul Griego, age 87, who left this world peacefully on March 5, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Services will take place at San Antonio Catholic Church in Abeytas, on Saturday, March 22, starting with a visitation at 8:30 a.m., a Rosary at 9:30 a.m. and a Funeral Mass at 10 a.m. Interment will follow at Abeytas Catholic Cemetery.

He is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife of 66 years, Helen Griego; his sons, Anthony (Karen), Carl (Luz) and Irwin (Yvonne Baca); his cherished grandchildren, Justin (Melinda), Cameron (Kathleen), Brittany Boyd, Jordan, Alex, Felicia Baca-Griego and Ryan (Jennifer); and his treasured great-grandchildren, Chloe Boyd, Tyler, Leo, Luca, Cecilia, Carlos, Cameron Jr. and Kateri Griego.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Salomon and Eluticia Griego; his brothers, Mike and Johnny Griego; and sister-in-law, Carmel Griego.

Paul’s professional journey included an 11-year tenure at ACF Industries, followed by 25 years of dedicated service at APS, where he retired leaving behind a legacy of hard work and commitment.

Beyond his career, Paul was deeply involved in his community. He became a sponsor for the RCIA program at Our Lady of The Most Holy Rosary in Albuquerque and devoted several years as a little league coach. After retirement, Paul and Helen moved to Abeytas, where he embraced a life of farming and ranching.

Paul further distinguished himself through his volunteer work with the Abeytas Fire Department and the St. Vincent de Paul food distribution program. His spirit of service extended to his role as mayordomo for the Abeytas San Antonio mission for seven years, as well as his one-year of service for the San Jose Mission in Contreras.

Paul was a kind and loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. His life was filled with generosity, community service, and family love. We are forever grateful for the lifetime of memories he has given us. His gentle spirit and warm presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Rest in peace, Paul. Your legacy of love and service will continue to inspire us all.

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

Darryl Dean Lamance

Died 2025

Darryl Dean Lamance, age 63, passed away on March 1, 2025.

Services will be held at 12 p.m., March 15, at Pie Town Baptist Church, 35 Festival Lane, Pie Town, N.M. Following the service, guests are invited for food and refreshments at the Pie Town Community Center. Burial to follow the reception at Lamance Ranch, 112 Lamance Road, Pie Town.

He is survived by his wife, Dolores Molinar; sons, Jacob Dean and wife, Britni Lamance, and Anthony Layman; daughters, Jessica Lamance and fiancé, Wilbur Garrison, and Adrienne and husband, Joe Chavez; grandchildren, Isaiah Dean Rumrill, Jameson Dean Lamance, Wrightly Lamance, Adeline Layman, Jaxon Dean Layman, Damian Chavez and Jezebelle Chavez.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Lamance and Varna Lamance; brother, Dwane Lamance; and son, Daryan Dean Lamance.

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

Nancy Santa Montaño

1938-2025

Nancy Santa Montaño, nee Sanchez, born Nov. 1, 1938 in Valencia, N.M., passed away peacefully early March 7. She was surrounded by her loving family.

Please see riverafamilyfuneralhome.com for more information.

A Rosary will be recited at 12:30 p.m., Saturday, March 22, at Prince of Peace Catholic Church, 12500 Carmel Ave. NE, Albuquerque, with a Funeral Mass to follow at 1 p.m. A reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution in Nancy’s name to your favorite charity.

Demecio Perea

1923-2025

On Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025, our loving father, Demecio Perea, passed away at the age of 101.

Demecio was born on Oct. 4, 1923, in Albuquerque, to Romolo and Frances (Sena) Perea. With his deep sense of duty and patriotism, he proudly served his country in the United States Army as a World War II veteran.

Demecio was known for his fun, loving spirit, his love of fishing and zest for life. He never missed an opportunity to share a story, a laugh or a warm greeting.

Demecio was preceded in death by his wife, Lucy; father Romolo; mother, Frances (Sena); and grandchildren, Lisa and Dominic.

He is survived by his two daughters, Dianne and Peg; his sister, Lucy; grandchildren, Josh (Elaine), Jacob (Reina) and Norah (Adam); 14 great-grandchildren and 13 great-great grandchildren.

A special thank you to the staff at Sierra Springs Assisted Living and Ambercare Hospice.

Services will be held at 9 a.m., Thursday, March 13, at San Clemente Church, 244 Luna Ave. NE, Los Lunas. Interment will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 7999 Wyoming Blvd., NE, Albuquerque.

Shirley Jo Ann Ray

1948-2025

Shirley Jo Ann Ray of Marrietta, Okla., passed from this life on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at the age of 76, peacefully surrounded by her loved ones.

She was born on Friday, Dec. 31, 1948, in Albuquerque to Ellen Margaret (Wride) and Lawrence E. Colson.

She was a lifelong resident of Los Lunas, and spent the last five years in Marietta, Okla. Shirley lived a life dedicated to her family, faith and community. She worked in various roles throughout her life, including as a cosmetologist, an EMT and a school bus driver, touching many lives through her service and care.

A devoted member of Eastside Baptist Church, Shirley’s faith was central to her life. She found joy in spending time outdoors, hosting family gatherings and watching her great-grandchildren play. She had a passion for gardening, raising chickens, and crocheting, hobbies that reflected her nurturing spirit and love for the simple pleasures in life.

On July 14, 1967, Shirley married the love of her life, James Howard Ray, in Belen. Together, they built a strong and loving family, sharing a marriage of 57 beautiful years.

Shirley is preceded in death by her father, Lawrence Colson; her mother, Ellen Colson; and her brother, Ronald Colson.

She is survived by her husband, James Howard Ray, of Marietta, Okla.; her son, Jeff Ray, and his wife, Joanna, of Williamsburg, Va.; her daughter, Jodi Oyler, and her husband, Daniel, of Marietta, Okla.; her grandchildren, Cameron Coleman and wife, Ola of Ardmore, Okla., Devin Coleman and wife, Cynthia, of Marietta, Okla., Wade Ray and wife, Coral, of Henderson, Nev., Brianna Coleman, of Ardmore, Okla., and Kincade Ray, of Henderson, Nev.; and her seven beloved great-grandchildren, Aaliyah, Lainxtyn, Ali, Gatlin, Eastyn, Gianna and Sadie.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Eastside Baptist Church in Shirley’s memory.

Shirley’s love, kindness and unwavering faith will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m., Thursday, March 13, at Eastside Baptist Church, 107 N. Fernwood Ave., Marietta, Okla.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Gordon Funeral Home, 221 N. Third, Durant, PH- 580-916-9090.

Christine Flores Romero

1955-2025

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved Christine who was called home to be with the Lord on Feb. 27, 2025.

Born on July 17, 1955, in Belen, Chris was the daughter of Clovis and Magdalena Flores.

She is preceded in death by her parents, brothers, Albino, Lupe, Desi and Pete Flores; and sister, Rachel Saiz.

She is survived by her husband, Pat Coker; sons, Donny and Anthony; brother, Paul Flores; sisters, Peggy Candelaria, Lucy Sanchez and Molly Jacobs; grandchildren, Damian, Daegan, Gemma, Brock and Benny, and many nieces and nephews.

A service of celebration for Chris’s life was held at Crossroads Community Church in Farmington on March 4, 2025.

Chad Salazar

1972-2025

Chad Salazar, age 52, a resident of Albuquerque, passed away on Feb. 27, 2025.

Services will take place at Romero Funeral Home Chapel on Thursday, March 20, beginning with a visitation at 10 a.m., and a celebration of life at 11 a.m. Interment will follow at Our Lady of Belen Memorial Gardens at 12 p.m.

He is survived by his son, Jonas Salazar; daughter, Mariah Salazar; and parents, Greg and June Landavazo Salazar.

Chad will be remembered as a kind father, son, family member and friend to many. He had a big heart and loved to use it. Chad stood up for what he believed in and was always doing good for his community. His spirit lives on and he will be missed by us all.

Urnbearers will be Richard Walker and John Garcia. Honorary urnbearers will be Danny Montoya and Jerry Gutierrez Jr.

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

LeRoy Frank Sanchez

1951-2025

LeRoy Frank Sanchez, 74, of Belen, returned to his heavenly home on March 5, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born Feb. 27, 1951, to Ernesto and Libitar (Libby) Sanchez; the fifth of 10 children, LeRoy grew up in Belen.

A celebration of LeRoy’s life will be held on Friday, March 14, at Calvary Chapel Rio Grande Valley in Belen. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m., followed by a service at 10 a.m., with a reception to follow at the same location.

LeRoy dedicated his life to serving others and making a difference in his community. He was a respected mechanic and automotive high school teacher at Belen High School for 22 years, where he inspired countless students and provided them with opportunities in the automotive field.

In addition to his teaching career, LeRoy served as a volunteer fire chief for the Tomé-Adelino Fire Department. He also served the Lord faithfully as a deacon at Calvary Chapel RGV.

LeRoy was a steadfast figure in the lives of his wife of 46 years, Cecilia, his family and friends and was always willing to go out of his way to lend a helping hand.

LeRoy is survived by his five children, Jeremy Sanchez (spouse, Krisie Sanchez), Joey Sanchez (spouse, Allison Sanchez), Jonathan Sanchez (spouse, Kristin Sanchez), Janelle Trujillo (husband, Steven Trujillo) and James Sanchez (spouse, Vanessa Sanchez). He was a proud grandfather to 12 grandchildren, who brought him immense joy.

LeRoy was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Cecilia Sanchez; sister, Mona Lisa Sanchez; and his parents, Ernest G. Sanchez and Libby Sanchez.

LeRoy will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

In memory of LeRoy, flowers may be sent to Calvary Chapel, Rio Grande Valley, 19381 N.M. 314, Belen, NM, 87002.

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

Eliseo Sisneros

1930-2025

Eliseo Sisneros, age 95, a resident of Abo, peacefully passed away surrounded by his family and loved ones on Feb. 23, 2025.

Services will take place at St. Alice Catholic Church in Mountainair on Friday, March 14, beginning with a visitation at 9 a.m., a Rosary at 10 a.m., and a Funeral Mass to be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Interment will follow at San Lorenzo Cemetery in Abo. A reception will be held in Eliseo’s honor at the Dr. Saul Community Center in Mountainair.

He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Ernestina E. Sanchez Sisneros; sons, Robert, John, Gabriel (Yvonne) and Mario (Eleanor); daughter, Marian

Gallegos (Al); daughters-in-law, Vivian Sisneros (Leroy), Gloria Sisneros (Herman) and Sandra Tien Sisneros (Andrew); brothers, Sylvestre and Abenicio Sisneros (Benny); 30 grandchildren, 59 great-grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren.

Eliseo is preceded in death by his parents, Esquipula and Inez Esquivel Sisneros; stepmom, Francisquita B. Sisneros; sons, Genaro, Leroy, Herman and Andrew Sisneros; grandsons, John Jr. Sisneros, Stevie Nelson, Max Torres, Jesus and Alejandro Cantu; and granddaughter, Aspen Willow Gallegos.

He was a devoted Catholic and long-time member of St. Alice Parish in Mountainair and San Lorenzo Parish in Abo. Eliseo was a proud veteran of the United States Navy and was stationed aboard the USS Princeton and the USS Boxer CV-21. He served from 1947 to 1951.

Eliseo worked at the Marine Base in Barstow, LA. He served as a policeman in Mountainair, and excelled in the sheet metal trade until his retirement.

Eliseo loved gardening and making people laugh. He was a very giving person and also a very forgiving person.

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

Felipe G. Trujillo

1926-2025

Felipe G. Trujillo, age 98, a lifelong resident of Belen, left to his eternal rest on March 6, 2025.

Hours before his death, he called out for Lily, his wife of 43 years. I asked him if she was there and he shook his head, “yes,” and pointed to the corner of the room. It gave the family comfort to know she came for him.

Felipe retired from Sandia Base after 37 years. He was also a barber and gave friends and neighborhood kids free haircuts. He was a loving kindhearted man.

Felipe and his wife were avid local sports fans. They would donate money for anyone that could not afford shoes and equipment, they were awarded “most loyal” fans, by the Eagle football team. They loved all sports, and were finally called “grandpa and grandma” by the league baseball fans in Los Lunas.

Felipe was preceded in death by his loving wife of 43 years, Lily Trujillo; his parents, Elfigo and Demesia Trujillo; four brothers, Dick, Ernest, Sotero (Terry) and Albert Trujillo; sister, Sylvia Baca; adopted son, Les Fertic; and grandson, Dylan Greer.

He is survived by his four children, Mary Jane Brown (Steve), Rita Greer (Jim), Phillip (Sylvia) and Marty Trujillo; grandchildren, Jeff (Carrie), Jennifer (Anthony), Jamie (Justin), Jimmy (Peggy), Melanie (Charles), Jason, Tonya (Scott), Stephanie (James), Esme, Jonathan (Stephanie), Kristen (Carl), Anthony and Damian Fertic; 11 great-grandchildren and 13 great-great grandchildren, two sisters, Ninfa Sanchez and Prescilla; and brother, Manuel Trujillo.

Pallbearers will be Jeff Brown, Dan Jarret, Scott Rogers, James Gallagher, Dustin and Hunter Greer.

We want to give Jamie Brown a big thank you for visiting grandpa every day that he was in hospice.

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

Fulgencia Trujillo

1923-2025

Fulgencia Trujillo , age 101, a resident of Tomé, passed away on Feb. 24, 2025. Services will be scheduled at a later time.

She is survived by her children, Bessie Torres, Johnny Trujillo, Linda Trujillo, Laura Castillo, Kathy Padilla and Marty Trujillo (Patricia); and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, family and friends.

Fulgencia is preceded in death by her loving husband, Thomas I. Trujillo; son, Jerry Trujillo; her parents, Ramon and Adelina Marquez Gurule; her siblings, Orsba, Rosita, Elycio, Louis and Patricio Gurule.

She was a member of Seventh Day Adventist Church in Belen. Fulgencia loved going out and going to the casino. She loved spending time with family. She will be greatly missed.

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

Lorraine Wells

1939-2025

Lorraine Wells, 85, died Feb. 23, 2025 after losing a short argument with cancer.

Born in Wausau, Wisc., in 1939, she grew up on a dairy farm with her three sisters, Ethel, Pat and Beverly who all survive her. Having no boys, her dad expected all of them to work the farm as men regardless, so Lorraine drove tractors, bailed hay and milked cows throughout childhood.

Attending a one-room school for eight years somehow inspired an interest in science at a time when girls pursuing such topics were actively discouraged in high school, college and even graduate school. Nevertheless, she received her master’s degree in genetics and worked creating hybridized flora.

Lorraine was an excellent cook and baker, and always generous with her talent. With her sister, she started a bakery in Colorado, before marrying and moving to California and then in 1970 to Los Chavez with her late husband, Bill Wells. She worked as a medical technician at Lovelace Hospital while also helping Bill start and run a commercial greenhouse business.

Lorraine decided to halt her career to raise her three children, Lars, Grant and Paloma, while also playing a large role in many of her stepgrandchildren’s lives over those years. Once the three kids were older, she returned to school, earning an associate degree in computer science and using that to become a research technician in UNM Hospital’s neonatology department, retiring in 2001.

All along her life’s path, Lorraine always offered kindness, unselfish support and a wonderful baked treat to so many friends, family and acquaintances; along with intelligent, well-considered conversations, and a deep caring for the well-being of others.

Services will take place at Romero Funeral Home Chapel on Friday, March 28, starting with a visitation at 10 a.m., and a celebration of life at 10:30 a.m.

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