Sandra Lee Gallegos Payne

“Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see the shadow.” – Helen Keller.

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Sandra Lee Gallegos Payne. Sandra was born on May 17, 1955, in Santa Fe, NM, a daughter to the late David and Helen Gallegos, and went home to be with the Lord on March 14, 2026. Her final moments were spent peacefully in her home surrounded by family. Through her journey of 70 years, Sandra touched many lives with her kindness, humor, and unwavering spirit of optimism. She will be greatly missed and forever remembered. After graduating with honors from Santa Fe High School, Sandra devoted the early years of her life to her family. When she became a single mother, she met that chapter with extraordinary strength, dedicating herself wholeheartedly to raising her three daughters with unwavering love, confidence, and courage. Alongside her devotion at home, Sandra worked for several years at the Grants Daily Beacon, The Santa Fe New Mexican, and The Albuquerque Journal.  Sandra wanted a more meaningful professional life and fulfilled her dream of earning an associate and bachelor’s degree in social work and human services. For several decades, Sandra was an investigator/juvenile probation officer with The New Mexico Children, Youth and Families Department (CYFD). During this time, she dedicated her time for New Mexico’s children and families, often behind the scenes, but always making a difference. Her compassion, dedication, and persistence helped keep families supported and communities stronger.

In 1987 Sandra Douglas Payne and got married in 2009. Together they spent their years fishing, hunting, camping, and hosting barbeques for game days, and they went to the casino together. She would go to chemo weekly with her husband and call it a date, and she called everyone at the cancer unit her friends. Doughlas was also her primary caregiver throughout her illness, and her granddaughters, Alexanda and Autumn also took part in her care. Sandra had a love of football, especially for her beloved Denver Broncos. Win or lose, she never missed a televised game and always dressed in Bronco’s sports gear. If not watching sporting events, Sandra loved spending time at Buffalo Thunder Resort & Casino where she enjoyed spending her monthly freebies, sipping margaritas, and mingling with friends.  Sandra found her greatest joy in cooking, baking, and bringing people together. Her favorite moments were any time of year she could fill her home with friends and family,  sharing a cold beer, hearty laughter, and unforgettable memories. Family was at the very heart of Sandra’s life. Her love for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren knew no bounds and was deeper than words could ever express. If you were lucky enough to know her and found yourself in need, Sandra was always there ready to help, offering support with her infectious smile. She was steadfastly kind, caring, humble, and selfless—a true friend who stood by you and always had your back.  Sandra is survived by her husband, Douglas Payne; her daughters Davina Jerger  (Harald Jerger son-in-law) and Vanessa Taylor (Tommy Taylor son-in-law); sister Velma Sanchez (Charles Sanchez brother-in-law); many grandchildren (Katiana; Dylan (Bubba), Jacquelyn, Jeremiah, Anastasija; Ariana, Angelo, Alexandra, Autumn, Ava, and Aubriella) and great grandchildren (Julia; Aaliyah, Emberley, Gabriella; Hannah; Kiara; and Issac); many nieces, nephews, and cousins; and her loyal and lovable pet friends (Chloe and Max). Sandra was preceded in death by her parents, Helen and David Gallegos, brother, David Gallegos II, and daughter, Louella Maes.

A Rosary will be held on March 30, 2026, at 3:00 P.M. at Rivera Kiva Chapel of Light, 417 Rodeo Road Santa Fe, NM 87505. Mass will be April 7, 2026 at 10:00 A.M. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, 100 S Guadalupe St., Santa Fe, NM 87501. Internment will be at 12:00 p.m. at Memorial Gardens Cemetery located at 417 Rodeo Road Santa Fe, NM 87505.