Arsenio David Trujillo, Jr., lovingly known to family and friends as “J,” passed away on February 26, 2026, in his beloved hometown of Nambe, New Mexico. Born on May 23, 1972, J was proud to have been born, raised, and to have spent his life in the community he loved.

J was preceded in death by his mother, Norma Trujillo, and his grandparents Luis and Andalecia Trujillo and Consuelo Dominguez.

J is survived by his father, Arsenio Trujillo; his sister, Nanette Mayfield and her husband Danny Mayfield; their children Amanda Bannister (and her sons Jayden Barry and Shawn Barry) and Devan Mayfield (and his girlfriend Crystal Nguyen); his brother Damian Trujillo and wife Lauren Booth, and their son Griffin Trujillo; and his brother Daniel Trujillo, fiancé Roxanne Gonzales, and sons Diego Gonzales, Cruz Gonzales, and Teo Trujillo.

He is also survived by his fiancé, Melissa Martinez; his stepchildren, TJ and his fiancée Lydia, and Mariah, whom he loved and proudly considered his own son and daughter; his granddaughters, Emma and Lilly; and his beloved grandson, Rahsiah, whom he affectionately referred to as his “baby boy.”

J was the second born to Arsenio Trujillo and Norma Trujillo. He grew up in a close and loving family that shaped the strong values he carried throughout his life. From an early age, J had a natural ability to connect with others. He was well known, popular, and could strike up a conversation with just about anyone. His personality made him a friend to many and a stranger to none.

He was also hilarious. Those who knew J often said he could have been a comedian. He had a quick wit, perfect timing, and a way of making people laugh even in difficult moments. Whether through playful teasing or a perfectly delivered one-liner, J had a gift for lifting the spirits of everyone around him.

As a young man, J was a star athlete with a deep love for basketball. His athleticism stayed with him throughout his life. He remained active, strong, and energetic, always seeming far younger than his years. Sports were more than a pastime; they were part of who he was.

J attended Pojoaque Valley Schools and later continued his education at New Mexico State University. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy, an experience that reflected his strength, discipline, and commitment to something greater than himself.

A skilled and hardworking man, J had a remarkable talent for working with heavy equipment, a skill he developed while working side-by-side with his father from a young age. There truly wasn’t anything he couldn’t do. Whether tackling a difficult job or helping someone in need, J approached everything with confidence and determination.

J was often affectionately referred to as “the mayor of Pojoaque,” a testament to the vast network of friendships and relationships he built over the years. He was dependable, loyal, and always willing to help. He consistently put the needs of others before his own. If he cared about you, he checked in on you. A phone call, a visit, a helping hand, that was simply who he was. There was not a selfish bone in his body.

He was deeply proud to be a Trujillo. After the passing of his beloved mother, Norma, on March 17, 2006, J stepped into an even greater role within his family. He made it his mission to look after his father, ensuring he was cared for and never felt alone. They were best friends. His devotion to his father was a quiet but powerful reflection of his character.

In his personal life, J found deep love and companionship with his fiancé, Melissa Martinez. The two were inseparable. Their relationship carried the vigor and excitement of high school sweethearts, filled with laughter, adventure, and shared joy. In J’s final years, Melissa brought tremendous happiness into his life, and together they created many cherished memories that will forever be treasured by those who witnessed their bond.

J was caring, thoughtful, intelligent, kind, and deeply loving. His presence brought comfort and strength to those around him. He had a rare way of making people feel seen, valued, and important.

J was a devoted Catholic who leaned on his faith throughout his life. In both joyful and difficult moments, he turned to the Lord for strength and guidance, striving to walk in His light and live in a way that reflected his beliefs.

He was also a passionate sports fan. An avid supporter of the Lakers, the Yankees, and the Raiders, J proudly wore his team colors wherever he went. His loyalty to his teams was unwavering, much like his loyalty to his family and friends.

J’s life was defined not by titles or accolades, but by the way he showed up for the people he loved. He will be remembered for his humor, his generosity, his strength, his pride in his family, and the countless quiet ways he cared for others. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished and the community he helped hold together.

Services are pending at this time