Elaine Naranjo Filbert, 82, of Santa Clara Pueblo, passed away on September 7, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born on April 13, 1944, in Santa Clara Pueblo to Jose Eugene and Mary Isabel Naranjo, Elaine lived a life rooted in family, faith, education, culture, and community service. She will be remembered with deep love by her family and all who knew her.

Elaine was deeply committed to education, community service, and the preservation of culture. She founded the Santa Clara Pueblo Community Library, Tutoring Program, developed the Santa Clara Pueblo Community Newsletter, that created a lasting resource for generations of students and families. She also mentored many children and adults by sharing her knowledge of the Tewa language, helping preserve an important part of her culture for future generations.

For many years, Elaine contributed to the success of the Eight Northern Indian Pueblo Arts and Crafts Show, helping it grow into a nationally recognized event and a celebrated showcase of Pueblo art and culture.

Elaine was deeply devoted to her church, where she faithfully served in many callings and leadership positions throughout her life.

To her nieces and nephews, Elaine was more than an aunt; she was a loving mother figure whose guidance, care, and steady presence remained a source of strength in their lives.

Elaine is survived by her daughter, Colleen Fuimaono (Mark); her grandchildren, Ethan Towles and Acelynn Towles; and her siblings, Ima Hale (Mark), JoAnn Tafoya, Joseph Naranjo (Eunice), and Jolene Nelson. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jose Eugene and Mary Isabel Naranjo; her daughter, Lowena Towles (Chris); her sister, Marcia (Andy Padilla); and the love of her life, her husband, James T. Filbert.

Services will be at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints on Monday September 28th. Public Viewing at 9:30am-10:30am, Funeral at 11am.

The family of Elaine Naranjo Filbert has entrusted the care of their beloved Elaine to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Beautiful Española Valley.