Hernando Montoya

Hernando Montoya, of Abiquiú, New Mexico, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Hernando found peace in the mountains and joy in life’s simple pleasures — especially during his time camping, fishing, and on his annual hunting trips. After many dedicated years with The Zia Company in Los Alamos, he enjoyed his retirement tending to his garden, alfalfa field, and the flowers he loved to grow. Blessed with a green thumb, Hernando took great pride in sharing his homegrown green chile with family and friends. He cherished time spent with those he loved, always ready with a good story and a cold root beer in hand.

Hernando was born on May 10, 1937, in Velarde, NM, to the late Jose Ignacio and Carlota Montoya. Hernando was preceded in death by his loving wife, Lorraine; his first wife, Grace; siblings Jose F. Montoya, Benito Montoya, and Jose I. Montoya Jr.; sister Irene Lopez; brother-in-law Jose Frutoso Lopez; and sisters-in-law Teodorita Garcia, and Rose Vigil.

Hernando is survived by his children: Jose Ortega (Michelle Padilla), Joyce Ortega-Tapia (John Tapia), Vangie Trujillo (Donald), and Josephine Ortega (David Bustos). He is also survived by his grandchildren: Erika, Lorraine, Candyce, and David (Celina) Bustos; Katrina (Chris Martinez) and Fabian Trujillo; Esperanza Ortega-Tapia, Jose Jr., and Mikaela Ortega, and Mikayla Padilla —and his great-grandchildren: Kristiana, Khristian, and Kameron Martinez, Kenadee Raye Bustos, Zeke Bustos, and Parker Romero.

He is further survived by his siblings Henry (Mary), Vicente (Louisa), Angie (Joe), Casey, Reyes, and Elaine (Tony); as well as his sisters-in-law Mary Montoya, Mildred Montoya, Bernadette Williams (Ernest), and brother-in-law Filimon Garcia.

Hernando’s memory will live on through our stories, our laughter, and the values he shared with us. He will be deeply missed by his loving family and many special friends.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to Monica Lovato, Casita Senior Living, and her amazing staff for the exceptional care and compassion shown to him throughout his stay and up to his passing. Your gentle hands, unwavering dedication, and, most importantly, the love you gave to our father brought our family great comfort during a difficult time. We will always remember the warmth, dignity, and kindness with which you cared for him. To Roadrunner Hospice — Dr. Piñon, the nurses, chaplain, and staff — we extend our heartfelt gratitude for the exceptional care and support you provided to Hernando and our family.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Thomas Catholic Church in Abiquiu, NM, on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at 11:00 am. Burial to follow at the Abiquiu Cemetery.

The family of Hernando Montoya has entrusted the care of their beloved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Española Valley.