Preciliano "Percy" T. Espinoza

Preciliano T. Espinoza, affectionately known as "Percy," passed away peacefully on May 25, 2025, at his residence in Hernandez, New Mexico. Born on February 17, 1944, in Chimayo, New Mexico, he became a beloved figure in the community, renowned for his work as a General Contractor and expert in block and brick laying and flagstone. His notable accomplishments include laying the flagstone at the prestigious Santuario De Chimayo, developing roofing projects through his father’s company, Mikes Roofing, and collaborating with his brother at David Espinoza's Roofing. Percy was affectionately referred to as the "Fireplace Man," garnering a reputation for his craftsmanship in building fireplaces in White Rock and Los Alamos. He also took pride in being part of the team that constructed the Chuckwagon Cafe (Big Dawgs) in Espanola, NM. He also had his own company, Percy's General Masonry. Throughout his career, Percy was a jack of all trades, believing that no job was too big or hard for him to handle.

Outside of his professional achievements, Percy had a vibrant life enriched by a multitude of hobbies and passions. He cherished the outdoors, often spending long hours enjoying activities such as fishing and gardening, where he delighted in growing vegetables. Green chili roasting time was a must for him, keeping the freezer stalked up at all times and he could easily eat a whole plate to himself. He was known for his charming humor and sharing his light-hearted wishes for "moonshine" and "a million dollars." Family road trips to Disneyland and SeaWorld were cherished memories he shared with his children during their formative years.

Percy served honorably in the United States Army, where his skills in contracting further developed. As a dedicated family man, he always put others first and worked hard to provide for those he loved. He is remembered for his strong work ethic and his unwavering commitment to family.

Preciliano is survived by his daughter, Priscilla Espinoza (Antonio Martinez); son, Daniel Espinoza (Linda) from Chimayo; brothers, Miguelito "Mike" Espinoza (Anna), David Espinoza (Anna), Tito Espinoza (Carol), and Eliseo Espinoza (Jeanie); sister, Esther Deyapp (Larry Deyapp); granddaughters who were like children to him, Victoria Lopez (Chris), Sally Martinez (Adam Kilpatrick), and Martha Espinoza (Jesse Martinez); grandsons, Beanie Ray, Brandon Espinoza, and Eli D. Sanchez Jr.; as well as several in-laws, including Sara Herrera, Dolores Gallegos, Terry Ramirez, Lucy Perea, Mary Ann Gurule, Rose Gallegos, Agnes Lopez, Orlando Lopez, Isaac Rael, his friends, Arthur and Guadalupe Martinez. He is additionally survived by great-grandchildren Natalie and Mateo Lopez, Robert Martinez, Kylie Kilpatrick, Kenneth, and Sierra, further enriching his legacy.

Preceding him in death were his beloved wife, Vickie Espinoza; daughter, Ciprianita Espinoza; father, Miguel Espinoza; mother, Francisca Eduarda Espinoza; brothers, Esequiel, Ruben, and Isaac Espinoza; sisters, Ruth and Eremita Espinoza; as well as in-laws, including Luis and Elena Gallegos, Johnny Gallegos, Gurtrude Rael, and Susan Bautista.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during the viewing at Rivera Family Funerals & Cremations of Espanola on June 11, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A funeral service will be held at Santa Cruz United Methodist Church on June 12, 2025, starting at 11:00 AM, followed by a meal and gathering from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. Percy will be laid to rest at Santa Fe National Cemetery at 2:30 PM on the same day.

Preciliano's infectious spirit, humor, and dedication to his family will be cherished in the hearts of all who knew him. His last words, “I’m gonna go out kicking and screaming,” resonate as a testament to his vibrant personality and love for life.