Albert A. Archuleta

Albert A. Archuleta, a cherished member of the Taos Pueblo community, was born on June 26, 1955, and sadly passed away on September 17, 2025, leaving behind a rich legacy woven with love, creativity, and commitment to his community. Albert was laid to rest on September 19, 2025, at the Taos Pueblo Cemetery, a final resting place that honors his deep connection to his roots.

A proud alumnus of Taos High, Albert graduated in 1974 and furthered his education at the Institute of American Indian Arts. He continued to nurture his thirst for knowledge by attending Haskell Indian Nations University in Lawrence, Kansas, and later graduated from the Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute, honing his skills in drafting. This robust education served him well throughout his career, where he took on the esteemed roles of Lt. War Chief of Taos Pueblo in 2012 and a dedicated lifetime member of the Tribal Council. His work at Taos Pueblo Housing exemplified his unwavering commitment to bettering the lives of those around him, and he was highly regarded within the community for his leadership and dedication.

Albert was not only a dedicated public servant, but also a gifted artist whose creativity shone in many forms—painting, jewelry-making, sculpture, intricate beadwork, and singing. He loved traveling to powwows, where his voice and presence brought joy to those around him. Through his artistry, Albert reflected the richness of his heritage and contributed to the culture of Taos Pueblo.

Albert married Lucy M. Archuleta on November 11, 1979. Together, they nurtured a beautiful family. Albert is survived by his beloved wife, Lucy, and they share a daughter, Analisa A. Aragon (Joshua). Albert's legacy continues through his grandchildren: Randon C. Tafoya, Caitlan I. Tafoya, and Chaslyn L. Tafoya (Rannon), along with his great-grandchildren that he adored, Zephanie, Zaylon, Eviana, and Xavier "Boy". He also had a stepdaughter, Raelynn Martinez (Victor), stepgrandson, Justin, stepdaughter, Suann Davin and stepson, Michael P. Mirabal. He is also survived by his siblings, Flora Archuleta, Annabelle Romero (Andy), Shelly Archuleta, and Lawrence Archuleta (Carlotta), and many cherished nephews and nieces who will carry his memory forward.

Albert is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Adelina Trujillo and Henry Concha and paternal grandparents, Mariana Lujan and Abelino Archuleta, his father Edwardo Archuleta, his mother Cesarita Archuleta, as well as his sister Verna Archuleta and brother Ned Archuleta. Although they have departed, Albert’s spirit lives on in their memories and the stories shared among family and friends.

As we reflect on the life of Albert A. Archuleta, we remember a man known for his humor who was not only a leader and artist but a loving husband, father, grandfather, and brother. His profound influence on his family and community will be felt for generations to come. Albert's legacy of love, artistry, and community service remains an everlasting light in the lives he has touched, and he will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.