Johnny D. Montoya

Johnny D. Montoya, 85, a resident of Riverside, NM, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. As well as a friend to many.

Johnny was preceded in death by his parents Modesto and Dominquita; brothers Thomas and Ralph; sisters Rose and Frances.

Johnny is survived by his wife of 67 years, Erlinda Montoya; sons David Montoya (Janette) and Dcn. Dennis Montoya (Deedee); grandchildren Matthew Montoya (Megan), Dr. Joanna Fowler (Jeff), Alyssa Flores (James) and Dr. Adam Montoya; great-grandchildren Xiomara Montoya, Ethan Fowler, Kazel Rose Flores and Jade Flores; step-grandchildren Jaylena Lujan (Jesse) and Joshua Lujan (Shannon); step-great-grandchild Kayden Lujan.

Johnny was a lifetime resident of Riverside and retired in 1998 after working for Jemez Mountain Electric Co-Op for 39 years. He started as a lineman and eventually advanced to superintendent. He was known by many for his hard work, generosity and great sense of humor. He instilled in his sons and grandchildren the values of hard work, generosity, and education.

As a boy, Johnny, spent many summers working with his family in Los Ojos, where he developed his love for the outdoors and hunting. He passed on this love for the outdoors to his family and passed the passion for hunting to his sons and grandchildren. After he retired, he worked hard in his garden and always shared his crop with family and friends. He loved sitting with family and friends talking about his days with Jemez Electric Co-Op. His stories included the many locations in the valley and surrounding areas he had the pleasure of conducting his work. He often commented about how things had changed over the years.

Johnny would always pray to his favorite saint, Our Lady of Fatima.

On Friday, May 23, 2025, a Rosary will be recited at 11:00 am, with Mass to follow at 11:30 am at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Santa Cruz, NM.  A Private Burial will take place at a later date.

Serving as Pallbearers will be his grandchildren.

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