Armando A. Carrillo

Armando A. Carrillo, lovingly known as “Mando” and “Santo Mando,” passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026, surrounded by angels as the Gates of Heaven opened to welcome him home. Armando was an amazing man with a heart of gold. He was deeply loved and cherished by all who knew him.

Armando was born on December 23, 1942, in East Los Angeles, California. He later became a longtime resident of Santa Fe, New Mexico where his family originated. He attended Guadalupe middle School and graduated from St. Michael’s High School. As a young man, he once told his mother he wanted to become a priest. Though that path was not chosen for him, his calling to serve never left his heart. At the age of 18, he joined the United States Marine Corps, where he proudly served his country.

After his service, Armando became a successful business owner of Yucca Roofing, where he worked side by side with his sons, teaching them the trade and the value of hard work. He found great joy in providing for his family.

Armando loved the outdoors and treasured the time he spent fishing, camping, and hunting with his children and grandchildren. He was a jokester with a contagious laugh, always wearing a smile. You could truly feel the light he carried within him.

His Catholic faith was the cornerstone of his life. Armando was a devoted member of the Hermano Cruzado, Pro-life and was part of the Medugorje Group Speaker Committee, helping bring powerful testimonies to the community. For many years, he faithfully attended Adoration at Guadalupe Church. His prayers were strong, heartfelt, and felt both near and far. He shared his deep love of God with family and friends, surrounding himself with priests and nuns and helping to build the shrine in Cerrillos. His life was a living testimony of devotion and faith.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Cosme J. Carrillo and Maria E. Blumner Carrillo; Gloria Montoya; his sisters Joyce Aragon, Christine Gerzanich,Tina Varela; and his granddaughter, Shantel Smith.

He is survived by his sister, Angie Bartlett; his children: Cindy Angel Carrillo (partner Kevin Carpenter), James Carrillo, Sandra Armijo (partner Steve Gonzales), George Montoya (partner Christine), Donna Montoya, and Randy Montoya (partner Angela).

He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren: Jasmine Marie Johnson (partner Brian Gutierrez), Jaydin Johnson, Samantha, Brandy, Vandora, Vincent, Monique, Tasha, Nick, Crystal, Dominique, Santiago and many cherished great-grandchildren.

Pallbearers will be Sons: George, Randy, James, Grandsons: Vincent, Estevan, and Jaydin.

Armando’s legacy of faith, love, laughter, and strength will live on in all who were blessed to know him.

God loves you and we all love and miss you.

A Rosary will be held on March 23, 2026, at 6:30 P.M. located at Rivera Kiva Chapel of Light, 417 Rodeo Road Santa Fe, NM 87505. Mass will be March 24, 2026 at 10:00 A.M. located at St. Anne Parish 511 Alicia St. Santa Fe, NM 87501 with burial to follow at Santa Fe National Cemetery, 501 Guadalupe Street.