Darlene Archuleta

Darlene Archuleta, born on October 12, 1963, passed away peacefully on November 12, 2025, in Española, NM, surrounded by the people she loved most. Her departure leaves a tremendous void in the hearts of her family and all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her life partner and soulmate, Manuel “Ricky” Dixon; her beloved children, Ricky Dixon and Erica “Sonya” Dixon; her parents, Jose “Urban” and Agueda “Aggie” Archuleta; her sister, Grace Lopez; and her brother, Frankie Archuleta. She is also preceded in death by her mother-in-law, Carmen Sisneros Dixon, and brothers-in-law, Steve and Gerald Talamante. Losing each of them shaped her strength, resilience, and the depth of love she carried for her family.

Darlene leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion. She is survived by her son, Frankie Dixon and wife Melinda; her daughter-in-law, Tamara Martinez; and her treasured grandchildren—Franchesca, Sean, Dominic, Jaliyah, Damien, Trinity, Diamond, Janae Godina, and Lynnessa Padilla—each of whom brought her immense pride and joy. She is also survived by her sisters, Shirley Gurule (Dino Dixon), Sandra Martinez (Lorenzo), and Virginia Espinoza (Lorena); brothers-in-law, Anthony Dixon (Vanessa) and Roland Dixon (Arlene); sisters-in-law, Linda Sisneros and Natasha DeCosta; and many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly, including Gerald Dixon (Ashley), Tanya Dixon, Fabian Archuleta, and Jennifer Lopez.

Her goddaughter, Monique Salazar, and special cousin, Rosemary Urbina (Leo), also hold her memory close to their hearts.

Darlene’s heart was as big as her laugh—full, warm, and unforgettable. Her love for her family was steady and fierce, and the bonds she nurtured will continue to carry her memory forward for generations. 

A viewing will take place on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at 10:00 am, followed by a rosary at 11:00am, at Rivera Family Funeral Home in Espanola, NM.