Jose Loretto Montoya

Jose Loretto Montoya, 76, a lifelong resident of Espanola, NM, passed away on Thursday, June 27, 2024, following a brave fight against Alzheimer’s Disease. 

Jose was born to Melisendro and Lucaria Montoya in Guachupangue, New Mexico. He was the youngest of four children, and the last surviving son. He graduated from Espanola Valley High School in 1966 and immediately found a career as a dispatcher for the City of Espanola and the New Mexico State Police dedicating 30 years of service. When he was 25 years old, he met the love of his life, Cecilia. They were married shortly after in 1973 and went on to share four children and seven grandchildren together. Jose loved to go for walks, write, tend to his yard, and most importantly, spend time with his family. Among his best achievements, his family was at the top of that list. He was an incredibly devoted husband, father and grandpa. He was patient, kind, and always willing to lend a helping hand where needed. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Melisendro and Lucaria; brothers Severo Vigil and Serafín Montoya; father-in-law, Jesus Quezada; mother-in-law Cleotilde Villagómez; and brother-in-law Gerardo Quezada. 

Jose is survived by his loving wife of fifty years, Cecilia; his sons Mel (RoseMary), Juan (Lina), Robert (Monique), and his daughter Krystal; his seven grandchildren Jevon, Jenee, Alexis, Alexandria, Melianna, Linda and Maisyn Montoya; his sister, Carmen Chavez, and many other loved family and friends. 

The family of Jose would like to extend a big thank you to all of those family and friends who were there in his final days and who sent their thoughts and prayers that Jose would get better. They would also like to thank everyone in the Presbyterian Hospice program for their loving care and support during Jose’s final days.

A Rosary will be recited at 10:30 am at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Santa Cruz, NM, on Friday, July 5, 2024, with Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11:00 am.

 The family of Jose Loretto Montoya has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the beautiful Espanola Valley. www.devargasfuneral.com