Pauline G. Aquino

Pauline G. Aquino, a beloved matriarch and pillar of her community, was born on March 4, 1941, in Ohkay Owingeh, where she also peacefully departed this life on May 4, 2025. She was enveloped by love and surrounded by cherished memories of her family at her home as she took her final breath.

Pauline was not just an individual; she was a beacon of kindness and warmth. Her spirit radiated through her unwavering faith as a devoted Catholic, which profoundly influenced her life and the lives of those around her. Her faith served as a cornerstone, guiding her values and actions throughout her life. Many will remember Pauline for her generous heart and welcoming nature. She loved to engage with her family, always striving to lend a helping hand in any way she could. Family gatherings and holidays brought her immense joy, as they were opportunities for connection, laughter, and shared memories.

She was married to her beloved husband, Joseph Robert Aquino, for 54 beautiful years before his passing in 2015. Together they created a loving household filled with compassion and respect. Though she missed him dearly, Pauline carried his memory with her, finding solace in the legacy of love they built together.

Pauline leaves behind a vibrant family that reflects her commitment to nurturing relationships. She is survived by her loving daughters, Christine Joyce Aquino and Johnna Aquino, and her adoring grandsons: Loren, Anthony, Darryl Montoya, Steven Lockwood, Matthew Montoya, Jagger Little, and Jason L. Abeyta. She was also blessed with granddaughters Miranda and Samantha Medina, and grandchildren Jayla and Jalen Abeyta. The light of her life continued with her great-grandchildren, whom she cherished dearly: Loren Jr., Janessa, Kayani, Raelynn, Dillon Montoya, and Jordan Lockwood, along with Jade Aquino, Aiden and Daniel Montoya, and Luciano Medina.

Pauline was preceded in death by her parents, Tony and Josephine Gabaldon, her devoted husband Joseph, and her children Paul, Joseph Robert Jr., and Anna Aquino. She also mourned the loss of her daughters Roberta Aquino, and son-in-law Joseph "Nini" Medina, along with her son-in-law Jason R. Abeyta. Their absence left a deep void in her heart, yet she carried their memories as a testament to the love they shared.

As we gather to celebrate her life, we invite friends and family to join us in remembrance. A Rosary will be held on May 6, 2025, at the family home in Ohkay Owingeh at 6:00 PM, followed by a Funeral Service at San Juan Bautista Catholic Church the next day, May 7, 2025, starting at 8:00 AM with burial to follow at Ohkay Owingeh Cemetery.

Pauline G. Aquino’s life was a gift to us all, and her legacy of love, kindness, and faith will continue to resonate in the hearts of her family and friends. May she rest in peace, reunited with her beloved husband and all those she cherished.

The family of Mrs. Aquino have entrusted Rivera Family Funerals and Cremations of Espanola to care for her and her final wishes. We offer our most sincere condolences to everyone who had the privilege of knowing her, and we thank her family for their trust.