Rosita "Rose" Montoya

Rosita Montoya, born on April 23, 1937, in Cerrillos, New Mexico, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2025, in Santa Fe, surrounded by her loving family. She will be lovingly remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, whose life revolved around nurturing her family and creating lasting memories.

As a housewife, Rosita dedicated herself to raising her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her kitchen was a sanctuary filled with the aroma of her incredible meals, and she was known for her amazing cooking that brought everyone together. Rosita's heart was large enough to welcome anyone who walked through her door, and she always had open arms and a smile.

A devoted Catholic, Rosita found joy in her faith and showed her love through prayer and thoughtfulness. She was also known for her vibrant spirit; she loved to sing while cooking and cleaning, filling the home with music and warmth. Rosita cherished her casino trips, where she created fun memories and laughter. The simple pleasures in life brought her immense happiness, whether it was playing cards with her grandchildren or walking from Cerrillos to Madrid, where she relished the freedom of being young at heart.

Rosita's proudest accomplishments included always having food on the table for anyone in need and engaging in crafts, school projects, and hobbies with her grandchildren. Her kindness and generosity knew no bounds, and she instilled these values in her family, ensuring they understood the importance of compassion and connection.

She is survived by her beloved daughter, Shirley, and her treasured grandchildren: Chris (Bianca), Chantel (Drew), and Mercady, as well as three great grandsons: Steven, Andrew and Santiago Garcia and three great granddaughters: Daniella Garcia, Isabella and Lauren Trujillo, who all filled her life with immense joy. She is also survived by her two sisters, Tillie Pena and Corrine Vargas, In-laws Geri Pena, Lolly Pena, Lori Pena, and Jimmy Montoya, along with numerous nieces and nephews who will hold her memory close to their hearts.

Rosita now joins her loving husband, Jose Montoya; daughter Gloria (Charles); granddaughter Mona; grandson Billy; her parents Fernando and Frances Pena; and in-laws Santiago and Virginia Montoya. Her absence will be felt deeply by all who knew her, but her legacy of love and family will endure in the hearts of those she leaves behind. Rosita Montoya will be profoundly missed, but her spirit will live on in every story shared and every memory cherished.

Services for Rosita are as follows: Rosary is Friday, August 8, 2025, at 9:00 am, Funeral Mass Friday, August 8, 2025, at 10:00 am both will take place at St. Anne's Parish. Burial after mass at Rosario Cemetery. Serving the family as Pallbearers are Mike Chavez, Jose Aragon, Henry Marquez, Robert Tapia, Tommy Montoya and Arnold Martinez. Honorary Pallbearers are Chris Montoya, Drew Trujillo, and Steven Garcia.