It is with heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Lucy Theresa Valdez, a beloved mother, nana, sister, aunt, and friend. Lucy left this world peacefully on April 18, 2025, her favorite holiday, Good Friday. She was born on March 22, 1950, in Monero, N.M., to Joe B. And Elbiria Salazar.
Lucy had a passion for working with her hands-whether it was repairing vehicles or creating something beautiful with crochet. She always took pride in being able to repair just about anything. She found joy in simple things – the satisfaction of fixing what was broken, the comfort of a warm blanket she had made, and most of all, the love of her family.
Lucy was known for her strength, her quiet determination, and her generous heart. In her spare time, Lucy made sure the coffee house was open and welcoming, always with a fresh pot brewing and warm tortillas ready. It wasn’t just about food or drink-it was about creating a space where everyone felt at home.
She cherished time spent with her loved ones and always made those around her feel welcome and cared for. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the stories we share, the skills passed on, and the love she poured into everything she did. She will be remembered for strength, her kindness and the comfort she brought to those around her.
She is survived by her daughters, Yvonne Galindo (Ben Maestas) and Leova Mascarenas (Luis Herrera), six grandchildren Jessica Ornelas, Elycet Whitmore (Richard), Joel Abril, Kiara Fresquez (Aaron), Cienna Villabos, Ashlee David, five great-grandchildren Marco and Zayli Ornelas, Aubrielle Whitmore, Ian Fresquez and Jayceon Martínez, sister Arlene Acosta, brothers Joe (Sylvia) Salazar, Amarante (Marilyn) Salazar, Toby Salazar (Charlotte Lewis), Leonard (Frances) Salazar, Kenneth (Anna) Salazar, one special niece and nephew Donna (Alex) Chacon, Gary Salazar and many nieces and nephews.
Our mother was preceded in death by her parents, son Leo Mascarenas Jr., great-grandson Kamden Fresquez, sisters; Clorinda Tafoya, Celina Cisneros and Eleanor Salazar, brother; Mel Salazar and several nephews.
A Recitation of the Rosary will be held 7 p.m. Friday, April 25, 2025, followed by a Funeral Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 26, 2025, all at the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Monte Vista. Interment will follow services in the San Luis Valley Cemetery in Monte Vista.
The services are in the care of Rogers Family Mortuary. To leave online words of comfort, remembrances, and tributes for Lucy’s family, please visit www.RogersFunerals.com.
