George E. Tafoya

It is with great sadness that the family of George E. Tafoya (Papu) announces his passing on November 1, 2025, at the age of 73. George was born on May 28, 1952, in Santa Fe New Mexico. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1972 to 1974, stationed in South Korea during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, George built a long and respected career with The Santa Fe New Mexican before retiring in 2020. He is survived by his loving wife, Lucille of 50 years, his daughters, Sonia Salazar (Gabe) and Jessica Chavez. George was a proud grandfather to Anthony, Lauren, Leland, and Isaac, and a caring great-grandfather to Josiah. He is also survived by his sister Ida Marie Vesely of Rio Rancho, NM, niece Elisa Vesely of St. Louis, MO, and nephew Alec Vesely of Seattle, WA. George was preceded in death by his parents Eduardo and Helen Tafoya, his baby sister Jenette, and his in-laws Emilio and Rita Valdez. George will be remembered for his kindness, quirky humor, dedication, hard work, and unwavering love for his family and friends. He was loved by all who knew him and will be deeply missed. 

A celebration of George's life will be held on November 16th with a viewing from 5:00-6:00pm and rosary from 6:00-7:00pm at Rivera Family Funeral Home. Funeral Mass to be held at Our Lady of Guadalupe in the Main Church on November 17th at 11:00am, Burial to follow at Santa Fe National Cemetery at 1:00pm.

Pallbearers will include Ida Marie, Anthony, Lauren, Leland, Isaac, and Gabriel

Honorary Pallbearers will be Josiah, Elisa and Alec