Lesley Marie Otero

Lesley Marie Otero, a pillar of strength and love, was born on November 6, 1966, in the vibrant city of Santa Fe. She fought a fierce battle with cancer, showing grace and until her last breath on June 12, 2025, at her residence, surrounded by the unwavering support of her family.

Lesley was not just a name; she was a force to be reckoned with. Her hands crafted warmth and comfort, as evidenced by her career as a housekeeper at the Inn of Santa Fe, where she turned mundane into magical, and as a manager at Pizza Hut, where she brought a slice of joy to countless customers. She didn’t shy away from hard work, having cleaned homes, tackled construction projects, and lent her compassionate touch at the Salvation Army. Most notably, she embraced the role of caregiver, embodying the spirit of selflessness that we all aspire to.

The kitchen was her sanctuary, and her culinary prowess delighted many. Whether it was whipping up mouth-watering red chili enchiladas, perfecting the rice, or baking delectable biscochitos and that mysteriously delicious chocolate cake (the secret of her mother she kept close to her heart), every meal was a celebration. Her cooking told stories of New Mexican tradition and love.

In every aspect of life, Lesley was the formidable matriarch who kept the family in check, taking charge and ensuring that everything and everyone was in order. Her big heart knew no bounds, as she opened her home and her heart to the most needy dogs at the pound, ensuring that no creature went unloved.

Lesley leaves behind her proud legacy through her children: Jamie Lupercio (Jorge), Martha Masso (Mike), and Julian Alvarez (April), and her grandchildren: Angelica Plascencia, Juan Plascencia, Xavier Alvarez, Jasmine Masso, Aaliyah Alvarez, Carlos Lupercio, and Emma Masso. Each of them carries a piece of her strength and spirit. She is also survived by her siblings Clifford Otero (Teressa), Sandra Otero, Melvin Otero and Amber Martinez, as well as her cherished friends Eunice and Barbara, who experienced both her fierce loyalty and devotion.

However, the world is a little dimmer without the light of Lesley’s parents, Emilio and Pauline Lucero Otero, who preceded her in this life, along with her sister Elaine Rodriguez and brother Chris Otero. The father of her children, Jimmy Valencia, also remains a memory.

Lesley Marie Otero was a woman who made no apologies for who she was. She lived boldly, loved fiercely, and cooked fabulously. A member of St. Anne's Catholic Church, she found solace in her faith as she navigated life's challenges with grit and grace. She was a whirlwind of energy, a caretaker of souls, and a chef par excellence, leaving behind a legacy woven with love, strength, and her signature flavor.