Natashia Serenity Marie Ortega

Natashia Serenity Marie Ortega, beloved stepmother, sister, niece, aunt and friend, passed away peacefully on December 18, 2025. Natashia was born on September 18, 1981, in the picturesque Santa Fe, NM, where she lived: adventurously, peacefully and stylishly, just like her signature smile.

Natashia is survived by her adoring mother, Yvonne Ortega, and stepfather Eloy Montoya. Her daughter, Amanda Esquibel (Mother Crystal Esquibel), who was the love of her life, her brother, Joshua Montoya (Tammy Montoya) carries her spirit forward with every adventure, her brother, her friend, sisters Sherri Montoya and Millo Lowry and her precious and adored nephew Damien Montoya and niece Raven Montoya always brought joy to her life. Aunts Rachel Arguello (husband John), Merlyne Ortiz, Lina Ortiz, Carol Leyba, Edwina Martinez, Diane Leyba, Eva Valdez Helen Lovato (Glen Lovato) Theresa Montoya, Freida Montenegro (Joe Montenegro). Uncles Lee Ortega (partner Kim), Wilfred Ortega, Clarence Ortiz (wife Laura), Oney Montoya (Rose Montoya), Harold Montoya (Martha Montoya), Ben Montoya (Terri Montoya), Joel Montoya (Joanna Montoya. Natashia came from a large family where she had many, many cousins who she loved and shared laughter and fond memories. Natashia also had many friends who she cherished, the family sends blessings to all of you.

She is preceded in death by her father, Albert Martinez, grandparents Lourdes and Jose Ortega and Rubel Montoya who have embraced her in eternity. Uncles Reynaldo Rey Ortiz, Tito Ortiz, Patricio Valdez and special friends who all await her with open arms.

Natashia was known as a jack of all trades, which in simpler terms means she dabbled in everything, often with an impressive touch of mischief. She brought joy to those around her with a laugh that could lighten the heaviest of moments. Her love for the great outdoors was unparalleled; whether it was fishing, hiking, or collecting special rocks and crystals, she found solace amid nature's beauty. Those who knew her can imagine her serenely singing "Take Me to the River," to her family, and belting out "What's Love Got to Do with It?" at the top of her lungs, much to the delight of everyone.

Her childhood was marked by a delightful blend of innocence and mischief. A fond memory of her includes being chased around by her grandmother wielding a frying pan, both in fits of laughter – a recipe for trouble that only childhood could serve up.

As friends and family gather to honor Natashia, they are encouraged to bring a special rock or crystal to be laid to rest with her come springtime in Truchas, New Mexico. An unconventional request, no doubt, but perfectly fitting for a woman who always had a knack for making ordinary moments sparkle.

Services will be held at Rivera Family Funeral & Cremations in Santa Fe, 417 E Rodeo Rd. on Tuesday, January 13.  A Rosary will be held at 1pm with Service at 3pm. 

In whatever cosmic amphitheater Natashia has found herself, may she continue to serenade the world, reminding us to take a moment, laugh a little, and perhaps even dodge the occasional frying pan.

Serving as Honorary Pallbearers: Joshua Montoya, Amanda Esquibel, Damien Montoya, Gerome Arguello, Marissa Arguello, Dominic Martinez, Unity Trujillo, Fido Rivera.