Obituaries (Nov. 26)

Lawrence Ayon

1956-2020

Lawrence Ayon, age 66, passed away on Nov. 12, 2020.

Lawrence was born June 16, 1954, in Walsenburg, Colo., to Conrado and Teresita Ayon.

If you asked 100 people who Lawrence was, they’d all tell you a different story. He was a friend to many, a proud veteran, a second dad to some, an AA sponsor, a mechanic, but his favorite titles were Dad and Gramps. Lawrence never met a stranger. He was known for his witty and often politically inappropriate sense of humor!

Lawrence retired from the United States Fish and Wildlife Service in 2011. Since then, he has traveled all over the country, which is exactly what he wanted to do.

He loved going hunting with his son and grandchildren. One of his fondest memories was his trip to Moab, Utah, with his grandson, Isaiah Ayon, and bonus son and friend, Chance Valentine.

He was able to travel Europe and go salmon fishing in Alaska, and his most recent trip to Florida to see his daughter retire from the United States Air Force.

Lawrence is survived by his son, Eddie and daughter-in-law, Adriane; daughter, Valarie and son-in-law, Jon; granddaughters, Kayla (husband, Dusty) and Sophia; grandsons, Isaiah, Joshua and Jonathan; great-grandson, Colton; great-granddaughter, Kimber; sisters, Martha De La Torre (husband, Jimmy) and Joanne Saenz; brother, Gilbert Ayon; and mother of his children and friend, Georgia Gallegos and her husband, Martin. He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who love him dearly.

His favorite pastimes were being with his kids and grandchildren, watching Jeopardy, watching YouTube, watching his computer, scrolling TikTok for hours, Googling random stuff, and checking the obituaries.

Mary Bell Baca

1939-2020

Mary Bell Baca, born May 3, 1939, a resident of Valencia County, went home to be with the Lord on Nov. 19, 2020.

Mary Bell Baca was preceded in death by her parents, Manuel and Ida; and her loving husband of 60 years, Ernesto Baca. She is also preceded in death by two grandsons, Mario and Vincent; her granddaughter, Alize; and her daughter-in-law, Shirley G. Baca.

She is survived by her seven children, David and Julia Baca, Ralph Baca, Victor and Keri Baca, Manuel and Sheryl, Carol and Steve Sena, Debbie Chavez and Jessica and Jimmy Tafoya. She is also survived by many loving grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Due to COVID-19, services will be held at a later date.

Glenn Anthony Benavidez

1949-2020

Beloved and devoted father and grandfather, Glenn Anthony Benavidez, was born in Belen Nov. 8, 1949. He was called home peacefully on Friday, Nov. 20, 2020, at Presbyterian Hospital with his children at his side.

Glenn was preceded in death by his parents, Antonio and Nicomerez Benavidez; brothers, Rupert Baca, Edwin Benavidez and Martin Benavidez; sisters, Cecilia Otero and Ruby Romero.

He is survived by his former wife and mother of his three loving children, Trish Romero; his beloved children, Lanette, Glenn Jr., Melanie and Lisa; his precious grandchildren, Elena, Jordan, Jazon, Elena, Sophia and Kaleigh; his brothers, Raymond and Charlie Benavidez; his many loving godchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family and his devoted friends.

Glenn was a proud veteran who served in the United States Marines during the Vietnam War. Many may remember him as the “Candyman” when he worked with and eventually owned his own vending company in his early years.

As a young man, Glenn began working as a correctional officer for the state of New Mexico. He was very well respected at Central New Mexico Correctional Facility, and after 20 years retired as a captain; a title that many who worked with him still address him as today.

Glenn was a phenomenal athlete. In basketball, he excelled at his 3-point shot; in softball he was a junk-throwing pitcher. Then there were horse shoes; he left his opponents bewildered when he would toss ringer after ringer. He often won most matches even after giving many of his opponents a head start in points.

Glenn loved music and was so immensely proud of his son, Glenn Jr. “Buddha,” and loved watching him on stage. His greatest passion was for his children and grandchildren. He could be seen on the sidelines of every game or event proudly watching with his camcorder in hand to record every minute; the biggest of smiles always on his face.

Glenn was a generous and loyal friend. He will be missed by so many. Per Glenn’s wishes, he will be cremated and services will be held at a later date.

On behalf of Glenn and the Benavidez family, we would like to thank Romero Funeral Home and Our Lady of Belen Church. We would also like to express our heart-felt gratitude to all who have sent the family condolences, prayers and shared memories.

The family requests that donations be made in his honor to the Notah Begay III Foundation, nb3foundation.org/donate-2. Additional option would be to send a check to: NB3 Foundation, 290 Prairie Star Road, Santa Ana Pueblo, NM. 87004, Please include “In memory of Glenn A. Benavidez” in the memo line.

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

Max Carrillo

1938-2020

Maxwell Carrillo, a lifelong resident of Bosque, went with our Lord at age 82 on Nov. 10, 2020.

Max was preceded in death by his parents, Maximilliano and Adela Carrillo; his son, Arnold Carrillo; his son-in-law, Pete Rynders; and his companion of 40 years, Grace Chavira.

Max is survived by his three daughters, Barbara Stubelfield and husband, Chris, Diana Chavez and companion, Donald Donges, and Terry Carrillo Rynders; his four grandchildren, Richard Carrillo and wife, Natalie, Leroy Chavez, Francine Bermudez and husband, Marcos, and Victoria Chavez and wife, Valarie; 12 great-grandchildren.

Max was a member of the National Guard at Fort Bliss, Texas. He had his own janitorial business and retired from Belen Consolidated Schools.

Max will be remembered for his smile, and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Arthur M. Chavez

Died 2020

Arthur M. Chavez, age 88, our beloved husband and father, peacefully passed away on Saturday, Nov. 21, 2020, with his wife of 60 years, Erlinda, lovingly by his side.

He was a resident of Belen and a member of Our Lady of Belen Catholic Church. He was a loving husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather of 10 and great-grandfather of six.

Arthur was a veteran serving in both the Air Force (1949-1953) and Army (1955-1958). During his time in the Army, he was a trained paratrooper and served during the Korean War, along with his brother, Juan Chavez. He was retired from civil service after 22 years, and also retired from the state of New Mexico after 14 years of service.

During his lifetime, Arthur aka “Tule” enjoyed fishing, hunting, creating artwork through drawing and wood carving, going to casinos, road trips and spending time with his family.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Leandro and Felicitas Chavez; his mother-in-law, Adelina Montano; brothers and sisters, Eloy Chavez, Matilde Jaramillo, Josefita Gutierrez, and Juan Chavez and wife, Fila Chavez; son-in-law, Jimmy L. Wallace Jr.; and his granddaughter, Amber Miles.

He is survived by his wife, Erlinda Chavez; children, Arthur L. Chavez and wife, Aimee, Stephanie Wallace and fiancé, Byron Peters, Martin Chavez, Paul Chavez, Juliette Miles and husband, Jeffrey, and Joe Max Chavez; as well as his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends.

Funeral services are pending. Please visit our online guest book for Arthur at FrenchFunerals.com. FRENCH – University, 1111 University Blvd. NE, 843-6333.

Lee Chavez

1967-2020

Lee Chavez, age 52, a resident of Belen, passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2020.

He was born Dec. 8, 1967, to Manuel and Margie Chavez. Lee grew up in Los Chavez, until 1985 when he moved to Belen. He worked for many years at Solo Cup, where he made life-long friends and met the love of his life.

After many years at Solo Cup, he decided to try something new and worked hard to get into the railroad, where he spent 15 years as a carman. Lee and his late wife, Tina, loved to travel. Their favorite places to travel were Las Vegas, N.M., and Ruidoso.

He loved to collect classic cars. When Lee wasn’t working on one of his rentals, he was spending time with his family, especially his poo poos. He had a kind heart and soul. Everyone will always remember his smile and laugh.

Even in the worst of times, he was always trying to make everyone around him smile and laugh. Lee had the funniest weirdest obsession with ears; it didn’t matter how old you were, male or female if you were standing by him, he was going to play with your ears.

Lee was preceded in death by his father, Manuel Chavez; and his loving wife, Tina Marie Chavez.

He is survived by his daughters, Sabrina Sheridan and Melissa Chavez; sons, Lee Chavez Jr. and Adrian Chavez Zamora; and mother, Margie Griego. Lee is also survived by nine grandchildren, and many aunties, uncles and cousins.

Services are currently pending.

Arrangements are being handled by the caring professionals at the Noblin Funeral Service Belen Chapel, 418 W. Reinken Ave., 864-4448, where an online guest register is available at noblin.com.

Gilberto Garcia

1934-2020

Gilberto Garcia, 86, born in Belen to the home of David and Carolina, passed away at his home in Albuquerque, Nov. 14, 2020.

He is survived by his wife, Mary; children Sharon, Catherine and Charles; eight grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, two brothers and two sisters, along with many nieces and nephews.

A private interment has taken place.

A special thank you to all of Gilberto’s family and friends for their love during this time. We look forward to celebrating Gilberto’s life with a Mass and memorial service as soon as it is safe to do so. Thank you to everyone who has brought food, sent flowers and cards. Please visit FrenchFunerals.com and share memories and photos as we say goodbye to our beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. We love you, Dad!

Norman H. Lindsey

1930-2020

Norman H. Lindsey, age 90, a resident of Belen, passed away on, Saturday, Nov. 21, 2020. He was a member of Sierra Vista Baptist Church.

Norman was preceded in death by his father, Roswell Lindsey; mother, Beryl Lindsey; brothers, Bernard and Grantland Lindsey.

He is survived by his loving wife, Frances Lindsey; his daughter, Norma Kay Ezell and her husband, Glen; granddaughters, Lindsey Ezell Hopping and Brooke Ezell; daughter, Lawanda Smith and her husband, Billy; grandson, Trevor Smith; and granddaughter, Tara Smith. Norman is also survived six loving great-grandchildren.

Pallbearers will be Glen Ezell, Billy Smith, Trevor Smith, Jamon Smith, Brad Chavez and Ruben Salgado.

Arrangements are being handled by the caring professionals at the Noblin Funeral Service Belen Chapel, 418 W. Reinken Ave., 864-4448, where an online guest register and service time and information are available at noblin.com.

Theresa C. Mangino

1931-2020

Theresa C. Mangino, age 89, a resident of Los Lunas, passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2020.

She was a member of San Clemente Parish, and a resident of Good Life Senior Living and Memory Care, where she resided for seven years due to a lengthy illness. Theresa enjoyed slot machines, bingo, traveling, as well as cooking and baking.

She is preceded in death by her loving husband of 57 years, Donald C. Mangino Sr.; parents, Ernest and Victoria Cattenacci; and sister, Adelina Pino.

Theresa is survived by her daughter, Victoria Rea and husband, David, of Los Lunas; son, Donald Mangino Jr., of Farmington; sister, Christine Sebastian, of Los Lunas; and brothers-in-law, Robert (Pistol) Mangino and wife, Anna, of Los Cruces, and Frank Mangino and wife, Mary, of Bernalillo. She is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

Arrangements are being handled by the caring professionals at the Noblin Funeral Service Los Lunas Chapel, 2211-D Main St., 866-9992, where an online guest register is available at noblin.com.

Emilia R. Norero

1927-2020

Emilia R. Norero, 93, left our arms to be embraced by our Lord on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2020, in Peralta.

She was born April 5, 1927, in San Lorenzo, N.M., to Bernabe Roybal and Ramona Orosco.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Alejandro Norero; three sisters, Julia Roybal, Justa Telles and Maria Corea; and four brothers, Roberto, Liborio, Bernabe and Genaro Roybal.

She is survived by her only daughter, Judy Sanchez and husband, Greg; grandchildren, Gregory Sanchez and wife, Alicia, and Vanessa Soto and husband, Luis; and great-granddaughters, Emilia Sanchez, Lucia Sanchez and Tobin Soto; and many nieces and nephews.

Emilia was a loving mother, nana and great-nana. She was constantly in prayer for everyone around her. She was a humble and generous woman often gifting loved ones with a $20 saying, “Here is an Andrew Jackson for you.” “Hasta Mañana, Baby.”

Private services will be held.

Jeanette P. Salazar

1961-2020

On Sunday, Nov. 22, 2020, Jeanette P. Salazar, beloved wife, mother, daughter, grandmother and sister was called off to heaven.

Although her passing was sudden, her family is comforted in knowing she is finally reunited with her beloved family members. Jeanette is preceded in death by her father, Henry Trujillo Jr.; and her sister, Joanne.

She was born and raised in Belen, and this is also where she met her husband of 20 years. Nothing made her happier than to spend time with him, her children and grandchildren.

Jeannette is survived by her husband, Daniel; sons, Ron and Roman; daughter, Denise; grandchildren, Cameron, Eden, Jayden, Evangeline and Tristan; sisters, Shirley, Nancy, Henrietta, Vicky and Sandy; brother, Eddie; mother, Viola; and stepmother, Carmen.

Jeanette was an adventurous spirit, who loved the outdoors and she found great comfort and relaxation in camping and fishing. She will be missed greatly by all who knew her. We love you very much.

At her request, services will be postponed until a later date, once it is possible for her friends and family to come together safely to remember her and celebrate her life.

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

J. Raymond Sanchez

1935-2020

J. Raymond Sanchez, age 85, passed away on Nov. 17, 2020.

Raymond was a lifetime resident of Valencia County, where he was known as a rancher. He enjoyed the community and the people he met through his real estate investments.

His wife, Annie Sanchez, preceded him in death in 2016.

Raymond is survived by two sons, Louis Sanchez and Richard Sanchez; two daughters, Barbara Sanchez and Jennifer Caldwell; three granddaughters, two grandsons, two great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Raymond loved to make his grandchildren laugh with his jokes, and he loved watering his trees. He loved his family and he will be missed.

Services will be scheduled at a later date.

Arrangements are being handled by the caring professionals at the Noblin Funeral Service Belen Chapel, 418 W. Reinken Ave., 864-4448, where an online guest register is available at noblin.com.

Dr. Roland K. Sanchez, MD

Died Oct. 30, 2020

Jessica Sanchez, MD

Died Sept. 5, 2020

The Sanchez family will be laying to rest our two beloved Belen hometown doctors, Dr. Roland K. Sanchez, who went to be with the Lord on Oct. 30, 2020, and Jessica Sanchez, MD, who went to be with the Lord on Sept. 5, 2020.

Services for Roland and Jessica to forever remain in the presence of the Lord will be held at Our Lady of Belen Catholic Church on Saturday, Nov. 28.

A drive-thru viewing will be held at 9 a.m. at Our Lady of Belen Catholic Church, followed by a Rosary at 11 a.m., the eulogy at 11:30 a.m. A Funeral Mass will be at 12 p.m., with interment to follow.

Due to the current restrictions, those attending services will remain in their vehicles for the services. We will also have the service streamed live online. Visit the Red Doc Farm Facebook page, facebook.com/RedDocFarm, for the link.

The family also asks all family and friends to visit the Romero Funeral Home website at romerofuneralhomenm.com to read about their lives and to sign the online tribute wall for our cherished Roland and Jessica.

Elia and the Sanchez family would like to thank the community for all their love and support during Roland and Jessica’s lifetime. They are beyond grateful for the outpouring of love from people bringing food, sending cards and flowers, gifts and heartfelt phone calls and prayers during this very difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Jessica Sanchez Enlighten Your Life Foundation, which sponsors scholarships at St. Mary’s Catholic School in Belen, where the family attended school. Donations can be mailed to: Jessica Sanchez Enlighten Your Life Foundation, P.O. Box 657, Bosque, NM, 87006.

Candy Lee Simmons

1950-2020

Candy Lee Simmons, 70, of Belen, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by her loving family on Nov. 18, 2020.

She was born to Lorraine and Allan F. Simmons Sr. on Sept. 9, 1950, in Waukegan, Ill.

Candy was a loving and extremely compassionate person to everyone, and was cherished by so many. She cared deeply about neglected and abused animals, and could never say “no” when one needed a home.

Candy had a successful career in management, spending 18 years, as the office manager at M & W in Belen. She was highly respected by customers and vendors alike. Chris would often say that the clients bypassed him just so they could be greeted by Candy’s pleasant smile.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Allan and Lorraine Simmons; and her older brother Allan Simmons Jr.

Candy is survived by her brother, Leonard Simmons and wife, Ann; twin sister, Carol VanHorn and husband, Luke. Candy and Carol shared a special bond throughout life, always referring to each other as Ms. Lee and Carrie. Carol was quick to take on the role of the devoted “caregiver” to the end.

Candy is also survived by sisters, Hazel Martinez and husband Chris, Lorraine Wilson, who she always lovingly referred to as her “baby sister” and husband, Harry; and sister-in-law, Bonnie Simmons; wife of her late brother, Allan. Candy also leaves behind many nieces and nephews. She loved them all unconditionally, and was especially close to Marlene who, throughout life, became the daughter she never had.

Candy regularly attended Calvary Chapel of the Rio Grande Valley and looked forward to the Lord’s word delivered by Pastor Ray.

The family has chosen to follow the health guidelines in order to protect the health and well-being of their family and friends, and will not have any public service at this time. We will, however, continue to celebrate Candy’s life and forever cherish the special moments we all had with her.

Arrangements are being handled by the caring professionals at the Noblin Funeral Service Belen Chapel, 418 W. Reinken Ave., 864-4448, where an online guest register is available at noblin.com.