Conradita Valencia

Connie Sandoval Valencia was born on December 14, 1931, to Frank Sandoval and Lucia Mora Sandoval. She was the eldest of 14 children, followed by her siblings Ben, Anastacio, Pilar, Frank, Rudy, Mary Lou, Fidel, George, Stella, JoAnn, Joe, Gloria, and Fred.

In 1945, Connie met Miguel "Mike" Valencia, a handsome soldier who had just returned home from military service. By chance, Mike lived next door to Connie, and the two quickly fell in love. They were married in 1949 and began their life together as newlyweds in Galisteo and Pecos before settling in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where they lovingly raised their family of four children.

Throughout her life, Connie found great joy in serving others and making meaningful connections with people. She began her career in hospitality at La Fonda Hotel and later enjoyed working at Chavez Dry Cleaners. She went on to become a beloved supervisor at Furr's Cafeteria, where she was known for her dedication and kindness. Later, Connie joined the City of Santa Fe Senior Citizen Program as a receptionist, where she welcomed and assisted countless community members. Connie eventually became a Foster Grandparent with Santa Fe Public Schools, continuing her lifelong commitment to caring for others and making a positive difference in the lives of children.

Connie also actively participated in her parish community. Along with her husband, they served as mayordomos of San Isidro Parish; they were instrumental in establishing San Isidro's food pantry, now known as San Martin de Porres; and was a Eucharist Minister, taking Communion to the homebound for many years.

Connie's years of service were recognized with several honors. In 1999, she was named Madrina at the MANA del Norte Scholarship Banquet, and in 2015, she received the K. Rose Wood Outstanding Older Adult Award in recognition of her exceptional service to the community.

Connie is lovingly survived by her children: her eldest daughter, Terry Ortega; twin children Michael Valencia, wife Barbara, Michaela Shelley Valencia; and her youngest son, Tom Valencia.

She is also survived by her six cherished grandchildren: Juan-Gabriel Gallegos, wife Alicia, Santiago Ortega, Nicholas Valencia, wife Rebecca, Isaias Gallegos, wife Desire, Javier Ortega, wife BaDottie, and Krista Gallegos.

Connie was also blessed with six great-grandchildren: Jaden Gallegos, Nyko Gallegos, Madalynn Ortega, Cailin Valencia, Jordyn Gallegos, and Alexander Ortega.

Connie will be remembered for her unwavering kindness, generous heart, deep love for her family, and lifelong dedication to serving others. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched through her compassion, generosity, and enduring faith.

Services are as follows: 

Rosary-Thursday, July 30th  at 9:15am at San Isidro Parish (Community Hall), Mass - at 10:00am at San Isidro Parish (CommunityHall), Burial- 12:30 pm at the Santa Fe National Cemetery

Reception to follow at:

Santa Fe Church of Christ Fellowship Hall

1205 Galisteo Street, Santa Fe, NM 87505

(Across from Rose Park)