Gilbert Vigil

Gilbert R. Vigil, age 89, a resident of La Mesilla. He was Born September 25, 1932 in Pajarito. He passed away peacefully on Friday, January 28, 2022 at home in La Mesilla, surrounded with his beloved children, grandchildren, great granddaughter, brothers and sister and many loved ones.

Gilbert was preceded in death by his loving wife Virginia J. Vigil of 58 years, parents Adelaido & Noberta Vigil, brother Peter Vigil and sister Elvira Vigil-Ogard and sister-in-law Carol Vigil.

Gilbert is survived by his Sons; Toby and Troy (Stacey), Daughter Stephanie Vigil-Roybal, Grandchildren Rachel and Haley (Bryce), great-granddaughter Harper Grace. Brothers (sister-law) & Sister (brother-law); Ralph Vigil (Gloria) – Rudy Vigil (Galina) - Paul Vigil (Janie)- Allen Ogard-Brother-law and Rita Caccamise (Don) with numerous nieces and nephews, cousins, relatives and friends

Gilbert R. Vigil received his Bachelor’s Degree and Master’s Degree at New Mexico Highlands University and an Educational Degree from The University of New Mexico.  He worked in Public Education for 28 years; Española Public Schools: 1) Teacher, Coach, Administration. 2) West Las Vegas Public Schools; Teacher and Coach. 3) Peñasco Public Schools; Director of Instruction.  He worked for the City of Espanola; 1) Director of Parks & Recreation and Swimming Instructor. Community Leader; Boy Scout & Explores of America Leader, and Catechism Teacher.

He was blessed living in Northern New Mexico in its beautiful mountains, mesas, landscapes, wild life, rivers and lakes, and the beautiful culture of the area.  Gilbert enjoyed researching “The Vigil” Family History from the time when the family adopted its name “Vigil” (Security) as a surname.  Gilbert enjoyed fishing in the beautiful Northern New Mexico Streams, Lakes and Rivers with family and friends. He took pride in planting and harvesting his crops and sharing with family and friends in the community.  He treasured the times he was surrounded by those he loved especially his family, grandchildren and new great-granddaughter.

Pallbearers- Grand Daughters: Rachel & Haley

A Public Visitation will begin on Wednesday February 23, 2022 at 5:00 p.m. in the Sangre de Cristo Chapel of De Vargas Funeral Home and Crematory with a rosary to follow at 6:00 p.m. A Mass will be on Friday February 25, 2022 at 12:00 pm at Sacred Heart Church, Española NM.  (Mass If possible will be streamed “live” on Facebook.)  Private Family burial on a separate day.

The family of Gilbert R. Vigil has entrusted the care of their loved one to the DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Española Valley 505-747-7477 www.devargasfuneral.com