Ramoncita Vigil-Chavez

Ramoncita Vigil Chavez, a woman of deep compassion, strength, and adventure, was born on January 4, 1937, in Española, New Mexico, to Celestino and Senaida Vigil. She was raised in Española and El Guache alongside her seven brothers and sisters, growing up in a close-knit family that shaped her lifelong devotion to service and community.

From an early age, Ramoncita stood out for her determination and athleticism. During her high school years, she excelled in sports—especially basketball—earning the nickname “Highlands” from her classmates in recognition of her height and commanding presence on the court.

After graduating, Ramoncita followed her calling into healthcare by attending nursing school in Santa Fe. She went on to build a remarkable and devoted nursing career, serving for many years as a scrub nurse at Española Hospital alongside Dr. Sam Ziegler, and later working with Dr. Merle Yordy. Through her skilled hands and compassionate heart, she cared for countless individuals throughout the valley. Her reputation as a trusted and beloved nurse extended far and wide, including caring for notable individuals such as Georgia O’Keeffe and Robert Redford.

One of Ramoncita’s proudest and most meaningful accomplishments was her role in founding the Amigos del Valle program. For over 30 years, she lovingly served her “viejitos,” finding joy in taking blood pressures, driving clients to medical appointments and the grocery store, sharing jokes to bring smiles, and most importantly, caring deeply for God’s people, whom she considered her extended family. Her lifelong dedication to service was recognized with numerous honors, including the Living Treasure Award from the Mayor of Española, the Humanitarian Award from the Rotary Club, Outstanding Christian Woman of the Year from the Church Women United of the Espanola Valley, and the Citizen of the Year Award from the Chamber of Commerce.

In 1964, Ramoncita married, Pablo Chavez. Together, they shared 51 years of marriage and raised two daughters, Debbie and Martha. Beyond her work and family, Ramoncita embraced life with an adventurous spirit. She loved the outdoors—camping, hunting, fishing, and riding her Jeep—but her true passion was riding her motorcycle, whether on open roads, rugged trails, or paths she boldly carved herself.

Ramoncita was preceded in death by her parents, Celestino and Senaida Vigil; her beloved siblings Joe Vigil, Margarito Vigil, Doloritas Gonzales, Elena Maestas, Eloy “Howdy” Vigil, Seferino Vigil, and Frutoso Vigil; and her husband, Pablo Chavez.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and service that lives on through her family: her daughter Debbie Medina and husband David Medina; her daughter Marti Chavez and partner Lee Andres; her cherished grandchildren Micaela Medina, Maricel Medina Barber and husband Justin Barber, Antonio Pacheco, Elise Medina, and Eliseo Medina; her treasured great-grandchildren Bodie Barber and Pacey Ramona Barber; and many dearly loved nieces and nephews.

Ramoncita Vigil Chavez will be remembered for her generous heart, fearless spirit, and unwavering commitment to caring for others. Her life was a testament to love in action, and her memory will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.

A Rosary will be held on January 5th, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., followed by the Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m., at Holy Cross Catholic Church. 

Serving as Pallbearers will be Antonio Pacheco, Eliseo Medina, David Medina, Lee Andres, Randy Vigil, Benito Vigil, Joseph Gonzales, Joey Vigil, and Stephen Salazar.

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