JIMMY “SANTIAGO” LUJAN, a life-long resident of El Rancho, went to be with the Lord unexpectedly on Saturday, April 8, 2017 at Presbyterian Hospital in Albuquerque.
Jimmy is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Cecilia Lujan; grandchildren, Jamie Herrera-Sloan, Jennifer Busick, Seagle Aaron Sloan, Dwayne Lujan, Jessie Lujan, and many great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his children, JoAnn Lujan-Benson, Henry Lujan, and Kenny Lujan.
Jimmy was born in El Rancho on April 8, 1934 to Senovio and Josephina Lujan. On November 21, 1954, he married Cecila, a vibrant and beautiful young lady from Jaconita NM. He then welcomed into this world JoAnn, Henry, and Kenny.
Jimmy was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and employee. He enjoyed camping, visiting with his hitos and hitas, working around his home, and most of all tending to his car collection. Jimmy is often remembered for driving his classic 1952 Ford pickup “The Trocita” all around El Rancho and the surrounding areas. He often played guitar for his family during wonderful gatherings that he would host at his home. Everyone remembers his favorite country songs, the honky-tonkin, the snortations, the great salsa, green chili and tortillas he would prepare. He was very creative and would decorate his property with sentimental things that he greatly appreciated.
Jimmy was well respected in his community. He has many friends and family that will miss him very much. He didn’t get to say goodbye in person, but he would want to make sure that he let everyone know he says farewell. He would especially have desired to say he loved and appreciated his wife’s family, Ruben Lujan, Josefina Lujan, Amelia Lujan-Bustos, Delfiño Lujan, George Lujan, Gene Lujan, Michael Lujan, Alfred Lujan and all of their spouses, his hijada, Diane Bustos, and daughter-in-law, Elaine Lujan, all of whom he was very close with. There are many more that were extremely important to him, way too many to list. A small service will be held at a later date. The wonderful staff at the DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of Española will be assisting with all of Jimmy’s final resting plans. In the near future, please expect a finalized date for a gathering of immediate family. Invitations will follow. The family of Jimmy “Santiago” Lujan has entrusted their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Española Valley. 505-747-7477 – www.devargasfuneral.com