Obituaries (May 8, 2025)

James Buchanan Conner

1937-2025

James Buchanan Conner passed away peacefully on April 17, 2025.

Though his last few years were a struggle, he spent them at home surrounded by family and aided by wonderful caregivers.

He was born Feb. 5, 1937, to James F. and Carrie Conner. He was a member of Boy’s State, DeMolay International and played sports at Gallup High. He was a 32nd degree Mason, and a member of Shriners International.

James got a job on the railroad during his senior year of high school. He left school late in his senior year and joined the U.S. Army, where he got his GED, and could protect his railroad seniority. After basic training, he married his high school sweetheart, Beverly Matte, in December 1956. He and Bev were stationed at Fort Bragg, N.C., where James was a member of the 82nd Airborne.

Their first son, Jimmy, was born at Fort Bragg. After his stint in the Army, Jim brought his young family back to Gallup. He resumed his job with the Santa Fe/ BNSF railroads for the next 30 years.

James and Beverly had two more children, Kim and Johnny. While in Gallup, he owned and operated Triple J Driveways, a small concrete and asphalt business. After 50 years in Gallup, his job relocated the family to Los Lunas, where he retired after 44 years with the railroad.

James was preceded in death by his parents, James F. and Carrie Conner; wife, Beverly; sons, Jimmy and Johnny; sisters, Helen Tolson and Hazel Hamilton.

He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Kim and Scott Lewis; daughter-in-law, Laurie Conner; grandchildren, Crystal (Jesse Sanchez) and Casey Conner, Katelyn (Mariano Sanchez) and Jordan Lewis; and great-grandchildren Brooke, Scotti, Jonny, Mariano, Mason, Lillie and Katie.

A graveside service for JB will take place at 1 p.m., Thursday, May 15, at the Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery in Gallup.

Honorary pallbearers are Tom Conner, Casey Conner, Michael Conner, Joe DiGregorio, James Tolson, Johnny Hamilton, Steven Gurley and Jeff Chiapetti.

The family would like to thank everyone for all the thoughts and prayers. We especially want to thank Tina and Wendy for the exceptional care they gave dad. We would also like to thank the caring professionals at Noblin Funeral Service and Raleigh Mortuary.

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.

Michael “Mikey” Louis Flores

1993-2025

Michael “Mikey” Louis Flores, age 32, passed away on April 21, 2025. He was born in 1993.

Services will take place on Tuesday, May 13, at Calvary Chapel Rio Grande Valley in Belen, beginning with a visitation at 9:30 a.m., and a celebration of life at 10:30 a.m. A reception will follow at the Flores Farmhouse.

Michael is survived by his precious daughters, Reyna and Aubrey; son, Saint; fiancé, Jazzlynn Abeyta, who he loved and planned a future with; parents, Michael Flores (Cyndi) and Bren Flores (Edward); grandmother, Sylvia Flores; brother, Andrew Flores (Alyssa); sisters, Nikki Flores, Kaylee Santiago (Brandon), Jadyn Casillas and Harley Crespin; brother, Little Ed Crespin; nephews and nieces, Lucas, August, Ares, Izabella, Brielle and Xavier, Zaidyn, Jazleen, Amira and Joseph, who loved him very much, along with many uncles, aunts, cousins and many close friends, who he considered family.

Mikey is preceded in death by his grandfather, Jose Albino Flores; grandmother, Lupe Flores Mosco; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Mikey was a kind, thoughtful and an adventurous person, who could light up a room with his contagious smile and laughter. His unique personality touched the hearts of everyone who knew him.

Mikey was definitely the “character” in the family and was often teased by his siblings as “mommas baby boy.” He loved being around his family.

Mikey adored his children and fiancé, who were the light of his world. Mikey had a huge heart that always brought peace, as the peacemaker that he was. He also had a love for basketball. Mikey was a dedicated fan of the Boston Celtics and the San Francisco 49ers.

He was employed with Budding Bar and Dispensary, who was thought of as his second family. Mikey loved spending time with his family and loved fishing as it was his time to enjoy life and reflect. His presence will never be forgotten.

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

Joe M. Gomez

1958-2025

Joe M. Gomez, 66, a resident of Los Lunas, passed away on May 1, 2025.

Services will be held at Romero Funeral Home Chapel on Friday, May 9, beginning with a visitation at 2 p.m., Rosary at 2:30 p.m. and a celebration of life at 3 p.m.

Refreshments will follow services at Romero Funeral Home Chapel.

He is survived by his loving wife, Elaine Gomez; sons, Maurice (Jolene) and Francisco Gomez; grandchildren, Francisco, Rain Ann, Alex, Star, Bella and Richard Gomez; six sisters, one brother and many nieces and nephews.

Joe is preceded in death by his mother, Francis Carrillo; father, Conrado Gomez; granddaughter, Zevadia Gomez; two brothers and two sisters.

Urn bearers will be Francisco, Rain Ann, Alex, Star, Bella and Richie Gomez.

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

Rene Marie Cande Zamora Gonzales

1933-2025

Rene Marie Cande Zamora Gonzales, a radiant beacon from Los Lunas, born Feb. 2, 1933, and raised in Tomé-Adelino, has ascended to eternal life, leaving behind a legacy of love, devotion and inspiration.

As a dedicated member of Immaculate Conception Church in Tomé, her unwavering faith and commitment to her community served as a shining example to all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Benny Gonzales; father and mother, Castulo and Reina Zamora; brothers, Bart, Gillie, Ray, Rupert, Olivar, and Amarnate Zamora; sisters, Concha, Auggie and Berna.

Her indomitable spirit and unconditional love will continue to inspire and uplift her loved ones.

She is survived by her brother, Julian Zamora; and numerous nieces and nephews, who will deeply miss her presence in their lives.

Cande’s remarkable academic journey began with her graduation from Los Lunas High School on May 17, 1951. She then attended the College of Mount St. Joseph in Ohio, graduating in 1970, where she became Sister Rene Marie Zamora, a kindergarten teacher, who touched the hearts of countless young minds.

Her thirst for knowledge led her to the University of New Mexico, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in elementary education. As an educator, she inspired generations of students during her tenure at Rio Grande Elementary School in Belen and Central Elementary School, where she retired in the early 1990s, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and passion that spanned more than 40 years.

Rene’s love for life was evident in her adventures with her husband, exploring the great outdoors through camping and traveling, as well as her tireless commitment to her community, volunteering countless hours at the Tomé church and San Clemente Catholic Church in Los Lunas.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Ambercare Hospice for their compassionate care, particularly Nurse Sixta, who formed a profound bond with Cande, sharing laughter, tears and countless moments of joy. Sixta’s selfless devotion to Cande’s care.

A joyous celebration of her life will be held at Immaculate Conception Church in Tomé on Wednesday, May 14. A visitation will take place at 10 a.m., followed by a Rosary at 10:30 a.m. Mass will then be recited at 11 a.m. Rene will be placed to rest at the Tomé Cemetery immediately following the services.

Pallbearers will be her niece, Marie Sanchez, and nephew Justin Werner. Honorary pallbearers are her niece, Norma Gallegos, Francine Gallegos, Dennis Chaves and Marcus Gallegos.

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.

Mary “Edna” Cordova Otero

1934-2025

Mary “Edna” Cordova Otero, 90, a resident of Jarales, passed away peacefully in her sleep on May 1, 2025.

Services will be held at Calvary Chapel New Harvest in Los Lunas on Thursday, May 8, beginning with a visitation at 9:30 a.m., followed by a celebration of life at 10 a.m. Interment will take place on at 11 a.m., Monday, May 12, at Our Lady of Belen Memorial Gardens.

She was survived by her daughter, Teresa Otero Ogas (Michael S.); son, Martin Otero (Valerie); eight grandchildren; great grandchildren; and great-great grandchildren.

Edna was preceded in death by her loving husband, Lefty; beautiful daughter, Camille; precious son, Marvin; parents, Arturo and Vivianita Sanchez Cordova; and beloved sisters and brothers.

She was a cherished member of our community and will be remembered for her kindness, generosity and unwavering spirit.

Edna was born on December 8, 1934. From a young age, she exhibited a natural talent for business, which she carried throughout her life. Edna graduated from Belen High School. She met and fell in love with Avilio G. “Lefty” Otero and the two were married on November 20, 1954, building their lives together in Los Lunas, NM.

Lefty and Edna were devoted to their family and always provided guidance, support, and love. Family was the core of Edna’s world. She enjoyed having family gatherings, celebrating milestones and creating lasting memories for her family and loved ones. Edna was the matriarch of her family, and was lovingly known as “Nanny”.

Edna believed in giving back and was actively involved in her church and community. She volunteered her time and resources, making a difference in the lives of those around her. Edna’s dedication to service earned her numerous accolades and admiration from many. She ran several rental businesses, helped open a kitchen to feed underprivileged at Grace Fellowship, and inspired her daughter and son-in-law to start the School of Dreams Academy Charter School in Valencia County.

Beyond Edna’s community endeavors, she had a deep love for Jesus and had a daily prayer life. Edna found peace in Jesus, even though she endured immense heartache with the loss of her son, daughter and husband.

Edna’s passing leaves a void in our hearts, but her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched. We will remember her for her love, wisdom, and quick wit. We will cherish the memories, celebrate her accomplishments, and find comfort in knowing that she is at peace.

The family would like to thank Roadrunner Hospice for their special care given to Edna. A very special thanks to Nurse Beth for her kindness and empathy demonstrated during Edna’s final days.

Edna’s favorite bible verse: “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” -John 3:16.

Nanny, you will be dearly missed and forever remembered. Pallbearers will be Leroy Abeita, Jacob Alderete, Dalton Otero, and Casey, Jerome, and Nick Cordova.

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