Antonia Romero

Antonia "Toni" Romero (Tapia), age 91, passed away peacefully on October 28, 2025. Born on June 14, 1934, in Santa Fe, New Mexico, Toni lived a long and fulfilling life rooted in love, faith, and family.

Toni was the cherished eldest daughter of her family and embraced that role with grace and strength. As a young girl growing up in northern New Mexico, she often acted as a second mother to her younger siblings—a role she carried with warmth and devotion throughout her life. Her nurturing spirit extended far beyond her immediate family, touching the lives of many.

She was a devoted wife to Pablo Romero for 66 years. Together, they built a loving home filled with laughter, tradition, and unwavering support. Their bond was one of deep companionship—whether working side by side or casting lines into the water during one of their many fishing trips. Fishing was one of Toni’s greatest joys; she delighted in out-fishing Pablo and would often dream about the big catches of the day.

Toni was a loving mother to her five children: daughters Anita Armijo (Bobby), Monica Rutledge (Paul), Elaine Yardman (Donald), and sons Steven and Joseph (Regina). She took immense pride in their lives and accomplishments. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren—Leisha Martin (Joel), Robert Armijo (Sonya), Jason Armijo, Andrew Martinez (Rebecca), Brieanna Martinez, Katelyn Yardman (Gregory), Jennifer Yardman (Nick), Joseph Romero, Jacob Romero (Annie), Arica Fresquez (Evan)—and numerous great-grandchildren, God children, nieces and nephews who brought her endless joy.

She is also fondly remembered by her siblings, Ray Tapia, Jerry Tapia, Pita Sandoval, Margie Barela (Ray); sisters-in-law, Mary Tapia, Esperanza Tapia, and Angelina Archuleta; and brother-in-law, Terry Bond.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Felipe & Nellie Tapia, and In-Laws, Jose Maria & Eloisa Romero. Brothers, Modesto Tapia, Willie Tapia, Antonio Tapia, and Joe Tapia; sister, Angie Bond; sisters-in-law, Thelma Tapia, MaryLou Tapia and Isabel Archuleta; and brothers-in-law, Adelmo Archuleta and Edwardo Archuleta.

A woman of deep spirituality and unwavering faith, Toni was a devoted parishioner at Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe Catholic Church in Pojoaque. Her faith guided every aspect of her life—from how she loved others to how she faced challenges with grace.

Toni’s talents were many. She was a gifted homemaker who found joy in sewing, baking delicious treats from scratch, canning fresh produce from her garden, and preparing meals that brought everyone together around the table.

For many years, Toni drove a school bus—a job she approached with care and affection. She remembered each student who rode with her by name and kept their school pictures as treasured mementos. Her kindness left lasting impressions on generations of children in her community.

Above all else, Toni will be remembered as a beautiful soul whose love radiated through everything she did. Her presence brought warmth to every room; her laughter lifted spirits; her wisdom anchored those around her. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, resilience, humor—and an unmatched talent for catching fish.

May the memory of Antonia "Toni" Romero bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.

Services are pending.

The family of Antonia Romero has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the beautiful Espanola Valley.  505-747-7477