COURTESY ANNOUNCEMENT

In Loving Memory

Anita Fresquez Montoya

September 28, 1959 - April 16, 2026

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Anita Fresquez Montoya, age 66, who was called to be with our Lord on April 16, 2026 in Overland Park, Kansas. Born in Espanola, New Mexico on September 28, 1959, she was the fifth child of Joe C. and Helen Ortiz Fresquez of San Pedro. Anita was proceeded in death by her father, Joe, her mother, Helen; father-in-law, Patricio (Pat); mother-in-law, Mary Montoya, of Santa Cruz; brother-in-law, Jerry Gray, Wichita, Kansas. Anita is survived by her husband, David Montoya, daughter, Marisa Montoya and granddaughter, Blayke Montoya from Kansas; brother, Horace (Orie), Albuquerque; sisters, Marquita Velasquez (Alex) Arroyo Secco; Imelda Fresquez (John Jansonius), Santa Fe; Velda Fresquez-Gray (Jerry-deceased), Wichita, Kansas; Veronica Cordova (Arnold), Albuquerque; brother-in-law, Patrick Montoya, Velarde, sister-in-law, Louella Montoya (Jenaro), Espanola, and numerous aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces and cousins.

Anita’s enduring memory and legacy was her creativity, humor and joy that she brought to celebrations of holidays, birthdays, special occasions with friends, family and everyday life. Her kindness, loving heart and vibrant spirit touched everyone she met. Anita married her high school sweetheart (David Montoya) in 1981. Together, they built a life centered around love, family and community. They were both adventurous and explored and lived in Texas, Wyoming, Colorado and New Mexico before relocating in 2018 to Overland Park Kansas to be closer to their daughter Marisa and Granddaughter Blayke.

In her earlier years, Anita was proud to work with Governor Bruce King and his staff. Anita dedicated her professional life and career as an Insurance Claims Manager. Beyond her professional achievements, Anita was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend. She cherished spending time with her family and took pride entertaining her “girls.” “Neets” as known by her family and friends lived a life of great happiness. She took pleasure making all who knew her laugh… unstoppable. She was unmatched in finding the perfect song, video or emojis to capture any occasion. The family treasured her talent and creativity, and her laughter was contagious. Her beautiful smile left a lasting impact on everyone who knew her. She had an enduring love for entertaining. Routinely, Anita brightened the day for colleagues, friends, and family by sharing her love of recipes, music, and artists. Instinctively, Neets could turn a day of quiet into joy and gratitude. Her singing was angelic and she passed this gift to her beautiful Granddaughter Blayke.

Please join our family for a Funeral Mass at 10:15 AM on Friday, September 18, 2026, Holy Cross Catholic Church (1332 Holy Cross Street, Santa Cruz). Immediately following the Mass, a Celebration of Life reception will be held at the Delta Event Center (233 N. Paseo de Onate, Espanola).

Her ashes will be buried at a later date. Anita’s final resting place and internment will be at Johnson County Memorial Gardens, Kansas. The family extends their sincere gratitude and support to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory in Espanola, NM.

In lieu of flowers, loved ones are encouraged to donate to a charity of their choice or consider making a memorial donation in honor of Anita who gave the ultimate gift of life to others in need as an organ donor through Midwest Transplant Network, Westwood, Kansas (www.mwtn.org), ph. 913-262-1668.