Honoring the Life of Willie R. Garcia

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, and proud veteran

Willie R. Garcia, age 89, of Santa Fe, New Mexico, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by loved ones on February 19, 2026, and has been reunited with his beloved wife, Angie Garcia.

Willie was preceded in death by his wife Angie Garcia, his parents Francisco and Ramoncita Garcia of Pojoaque, New Mexico, parents in law Manuel and Frances Medrano of Santa Fe, New Mexico, brothers Herman Garcia, Leandro Garcia, Ramon Garcia, Eloy Garcia, Raymond Garcia, Frank Garcia Jr. sisters (Two) - Lydia M Garcia, Lydia Garcia, Viola Atencio (Vicente), Lorraine Davey (Jerry), brother in laws Bobby Garcia, Don Rodriguez, Manuel Solano, Victor Trujillo, Mariano Gonzales, Armando Lujan, Joe Medrano (Rosina), Frank Medrano (Gloria), David Medrano, sister in law Carol Medrano, Carmen Ortiz; Godson Danny Archuleta

He is survived by his loving children; Donna Garcia-Montoya (Alex), Luanna Mazuranich (Bruce), Karmela Garcia, Reyes Garcia (Jayden); grandchildren Jocelyn Montoya Moots (Callahan), Jared Coriz, Kryshana de Herrera; great grandchildren Crystal Garcia, and Sativa Garcia; godchildren Jocelyn Montoya Moots, Jared Coriz, Anthony Ortiz, Raymond Gonzales, Liz Medrano, Mando Lujan, Michael Garcia, Greg Trujillo, Victor Trujillo, Monica Medrano, Ella Herrera, Angela Padilla, Sophia Medina; brothers Edward Garcia, Ramos Garcia, Frank Garcia Sisters, Prescilla Garcia, Socorro Trujillo, Berlin Solano, Petronilla Lopez (Manuel), Rubanna Rodriguez (Larry), Florence Rodriguez, Veronica Vigil (David) brother in law Louie Medrano (Barbara), Richard Medrano (Carol), sisters in law Sophie Gonzales, Florinda Lujan, Valerie Medrano, Rosemary Medrano, Alice Garcia, Molly Garcia, brother in law, Frank Ortiz; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was born on December 8, 1936, to Francisco and Ramoncita Garcia in Pojoaque, New Mexico, and lived a life defined by dedication, courage, integrity, faith, and deep love for his family and community.

Willie proudly served his country in the United States Navy as a Frogman during the Korean War on the Floyd B Parks Destroyer, where he displayed great bravery when he spotted an enemy submarine preparing to attack —an act for which he received a medal. His devotion to duty and country was steadfast and true.

After his military service, Willie earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting and Business Administration from the College of Santa Fe. He dedicated his career serving the people of New Mexico. He worked as a police officer in Santa Fe and later for the State of New Mexico, holding upper management positions with the Oil and Gas Commission and Veterans Service Commission. Finally where he worked as an Assistant Chief for the Department of Game & Fish, where he retired in 1987. Willie thoroughly enjoyed being able to incorporate his law enforcement background while employed with the Game and Fish where he became a Commissioned Officer and assisted on patrols and vehicle stop training —always committed to safety, honor, and justice.

Willie believed firmly in doing what was right. He was a man of great faith. The most memorable display of his faith was his walks to El Santuario de Chimayó, a journey he undertook for many years with humility, reverence, and thanksgiving.

Following his working career, Willie became a member of The Disabled American Veterans where he served as a Treasurer and took pride in helping young people succeed through the Job Corps program. Outside of his service, he loved working in his yard, riding his horses, and staying fit at the gym. He especially cherished time with his family who were the joy of his life.

Willie and Angie shared a beautiful and devoted life together. They participated in the Fiesta de Santa Fe, where Willie was a member of the Caballeros DeVargas and Angie sewed all his beautiful costumes. They were asked to lead marchas at wedding celebrations and enjoyed square dancing. Their home was filled with faith, music, and laughter.

Willie was a pillar of strength for his family and a guiding light for his children. His warm, contagious smile, joyful soul, generous heart, and kind spirit touched the lives of all who crossed his path. Many who knew Willie considered him their best friend—a reflection of his loyalty, compassion, and genuine care for others.

Willie will be remembered as a man of courage, kindness, intelligence, faith, and unwavering integrity. He built a home filled with stability, devotion, and love—leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire all who knew him.

Although he is no longer with us, Willie’s spirit continues to shine in the lives he touched. His steadfast love, wisdom, and strength will continue to guide his family every day. He is now at peace—reunited with Angie—and forever watching over those he loved.

Pallbearers: Jared Coriz, Bruce Mazuranich, Alex Montoya, Callahan Moots, Herman Garcia, and Mando Lujan

Funeral services will be held on March 12, 2026, in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Viewing will begin at 9:30 a.m., followed by the Rosary at 10:00 a.m. at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, 141 Cathedral Place. The Funeral Mass will immediately follow. Military honors will be rendered at 12:30 p.m.at the Santa Fe National Cemetery, 501 N Guadalupe St.