Dora T. Bustos

Maria Delfina Doraldina Bustos, affectionately known as Dora T. Bustos, was born on October 18, 1934, in Chimayo, New Mexico, and passed away peacefully on June 30, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones in the home where she was born.

Dora lived a life rich in love and compassion, caring for others throughout her years. She found joy in her work, cleaning homes in Santa Fe and dedicating her time at the bed and breakfast owned by her dear friend, Sue Farrington. Her culinary skills shone as she helped maintain the bountiful bed and breakfast, preparing meals with the same love that she provided to her family.

Dora’s nurturing spirit extended beyond her work; she was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and devoted friend. She shared a deep love for her husband, Elias, and together they were a joy to watch as they danced in unison to the rhythm of their favorite tunes. Dora had a passion for gardening, where she grew fresh vegetables that not only nourished her family but also turned into delicious meals that brought everyone together.

With a personality that radiated warmth and humor, Dora was known for her quick wit and ability to make people laugh, often stating, "I like to make people laugh." A social butterfly, she enjoyed visiting friends and engaging in lively conversations, cherishing the community around her. In her later years, her friendships continued to flourish as she relished phone conversations with those she loved.

Her proudest accomplishment was raising her children and grandchildren, ensuring that they were always fed and cared for. She embraced her role wholeheartedly, serving as a cornerstone of support and love for her family.

Dora is survived by her children, Carmelito and Geraldine Martinez (Seledon), Harold (Nora), Walter (Leah), Rodney (Cynthia), and Nadine Mondragon (Chris); her grandchildren, Randy J. Martinez (Gloria), Rhonda L. Evenhus (Jeremy), Nichole Fresquez, Julian Bustos, Tracy Lovato, Eric Bustos, Ryan Bustos (Briana), Ricky Bustos, Hilary Bustos (Edgar Huerta), Adrianna Kraybill (Jacob), Joshua D. Mondragon (Brandon), Jayson S. Bustos, Jayme L. Bustos (Jaden), Jasmine E. Mondragon (Diego), Michaela F. Martinez (great-granddaughter), Marisa R. Martinez (great-granddaughter), Kyle D. Evenhus (great-grandson), Lauren C. Evenhus (great-granddaughter), Josiah and Zaccariah Fresquez (great-grandsons), Damian and Yoliana Huerta (great-grandchildren), Gabriella Salazar (great-granddaughter), and Elias Kraybill (great-grandson), Hanna, William and Benjamin Bustos (great-grandchildren), brother-in-law Arturo Bustos, sister-in-law Evelyn Bustos, along with many other cherished family members and friends, including close friends Sue Farrington, Susie Ruiz, Juanita Jaramillo, and caregiver Cindy Martinez,

Dora was preceded in death by her parents, Julian and Natividad Trujillo; her loving husband Elias Bustos, her stepmother, Rosario Trujillo; her brothers, Max Trujillo (Carolina) and Ismael Trujillo (Erlinda); her son, Eric A. Bustos; grandchildren Bryanna, Nicholas, and Ashley; niece Lubella Martinez; mother-in-law Barbarita Maestas; father-in-law Elias Bustos Sr.; brother-in-law Manuel Bustos; and sister-in-law Placida Maestas.

In honor if Dora, A Rosery will be held on July 10th, 2025, at Holy Family Parish in Chimayo, beginning at 9:00am. A Funeral Mass will follow at 10:00am. Burial will take place at Santa Fe National Cemetery at 2:30pm the same day.

Dora T. Bustos will be remembered for her unwavering love, her laughter, and her impactful presence in the lives of those she touched. Her legacy of nurturing will live on through her family and friends, forever honoring the beautiful life she led.