Joseph R. Archuleta, 63 years, of Espanola, NM, sadly passed away on April 2, 2026. Joseph was born on October 24, 1962, the youngest of twelve children. He lost his father at the young age of six years old and was raised by his mother, along with the love and support of all his siblings. As a child, Joseph was naturally curious and full of questions, always eager to learn and understand the world around him.

He had a deep love for the outdoors, especially spending time in the mountains, fishing, and hunting. From a young age, he showed a remarkable artistic talent. As he grew, his creativity flourished, and he explored many forms of artwork including taxidermy, paintings, folk-art carving, and jewelry-making from silver.

Joseph began collecting pieces of driftwood, which soon became the foundation of his craft. He carved statues, angels, animals, canes, and saints, eventually creating custom pieces upon request. His angel carvings, in particular, became highly sought after and were displayed and sold at the Abiquiú Monastery, La Fonda Hotel, and other art galleries. He took great pride in his work and became highly skilled in bringing his ideas to life.

Even in everyday moments, Joseph’s artistic spirit was evident. While dining out with family, he would often sketch on napkins, leaving behind thoughtful drawings for waitstaff to find. Today, his beautiful angels and St. Francis wood carvings, paintings, and folk-art pieces can be found in many businesses and homes throughout New Mexico, including the homes of his loved ones.

Joseph was deeply loved by his family and will be greatly missed.

Joseph Archuleta, was preceded in death by his parents, Ramon and Pilar Archuleta; his grandparents, Adelia and Santiago Gallegos, and Leonor and Melisendro Archuleta; his son, Manuel Archuleta; his brothers, Manuel Ramon Archuleta; his sisters, Mary Agnes Maestas, Sandra Borunda, and Sarah Gutierrez; his brother-in-law, Joe Susano Quintana; and the mother of his sons, Audra Espinoza.

He is survived by his son, Aaron Archuleta (Justine), and daughter, Amberly; his grandsons, Devin, Aaron Jr., and Archie; his granddaughters, Reina, Aubrey, Audra and Leilani; and his great-granddaughter Bailey. He is also survived by his sisters, Juvela Naranjo (Mike), Viola E. Quintana, Prescilla Riofrio (Fabian), Martha Salazar (Jesse), and Geraldine Sena (Jose); his brothers, Roy Archuleta (Lorraine) and Roberto Archuleta (Loretta); as well as his brother-in-law, Armando Gutierrez and many other relatives and friends.

Memorial services at New Creations Church, Pending

Burial, Pending

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