It is with great love and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our dear mother, Lourdes Atencio, 81, a resident of El Duende. She passed away on Thursday, June 11, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Lourdes was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Antonio J. Atencio; children, Danny and Matthew Atencio; grandchildren Nicole and Donovan Atencio; parents Thomas and Pablita Borrego; Father Bernardo Baros; brothers Andres, Eugene, Emilio Borrego and Bernardo Baroz Jr.; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law Manuel (Natividad), Margarito (Mary and Ellie), Abelino, and Gilbert Atencio; Adela (Delfio) Vigil, Criselia (Ernesto) Vigil, Margarita (Jose Benancio) Baca, Rosalina (Jose Maria) Herrera, Louisa (Joe) Padilla, Tomasita (Sebedello) Ortega, and Esther Villa.

Lourdes is survived by her children Anthony (Yvette) Atencio, Eva (Johnny) Martinez, Larry (Cathy) Atencio, Emilio (Shirley) Atencio, Pam Atencio; grandchildren Crystal (Nathaniel), Stephanie (Jason), Alyson (Marty), Larry Jr. (Maria Lucia), Samantha, Andres, Devin, Landon, Anissa, Jenasii, Leo, Deanza; great-grandchildren Isaiah, Dominic, Jeremy, Cruz, Alina, Selena, Michael, Martin, Kailey, Matthew; brothers Robert (Carrie) Borrego and Michael (Florinda) Borrego; sister Josina Clark; sisters-in-law Patricia Borrego, Florinda Atencio and Mary Vigil; and many other cherished relatives.

Lourdes was the heart and soul of her family. She took immense pride in the beautiful life she built alongside her beloved husband, Antonio J. Atencio, and in the family they created together. She was the embodiment of patience, understanding, and forgiveness, always extending unconditional love to those around her.

Her home was a place of comfort and warmth, where all were welcomed with open arms. Whether offering a warm meal, a listening ear, or gentle guidance, Lourdes gave freely of herself. She possessed a remarkable ability to listen without judgment and to provide thoughtful advice when needed most.

Lourdes had the kindest heart one could hope for in a mother. She extended that same nurturing spirit beyond her own children, becoming a source of comfort and care to anyone in need of a mother’s love. Her presence brought peace, reassurance, and strength to all who knew her.

A dedicated and hardworking woman, Lourdes balanced the demands of her career while caring deeply for her family. Following her retirement from the State of New Mexico, she continued to serve others selflessly, devoting herself to the care of both of her parents until their passing—an enduring testament to her love and commitment.

Lourdes was never one to sit still. She found joy in caring for her home—whether preparing meals in the kitchen, tending to her houseplants, or nurturing her rose bushes and yard. Her hands and heart were always at work, creating a home filled with warmth and love.

Lourdes leaves behind a legacy of compassion, strength, and unwavering devotion to family. She will be profoundly missed and forever remembered by all who were blessed to know her.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Tomasita Herrera, her caregiver, and her grandkids for their exceptional care, compassion, and unwavering support. The family also extends sincere gratitude to extended family members for their many visits, love, and support.

A Rosary will be recited on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at 6:00 pm at DeVargas Funeral Home in Espanola, NM.

Mass of Christian Burial will be on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at 10:00 am at San Jose Catholic Church in Hernandez, NM, with Burial to follow at the San Jose Cemetery in Hernandez, NM.

Serving as Pallbearers are Anthony, Larry, Emilio, Larry Jr. Atencio, Johnny Martinez, Michael Borrego.

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