Nancy Chavez

In Loving Memory of Nancy Chavez

Nancy Chavez, age 90, a resident of Albuquerque, New Mexico, passed away on October 17, 2025. Nancy is survived by her children, son, L. Anthony Chavez and wife, Yolanda, and daughter, Annette Chavez; grandchildren, Therese Saiz, Carlos Chavez and wife, Crystal Martinez, Nicholas Chavez, and Olivia Chavez; great-grandchildren, Joshua Chavez and Adam Chavez; brother, Candido P. Armijo Jr. and sister, Flora Telles; several nieces, nephews, and extended family members. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ruben Chavez and son, Ruben “Boobie” Chavez Jr.

Nancy Chavez was born and raised in the close-knit community of Armijo, nestled in the South Valley of Albuquerque. A devout Catholic from a young age, Nancy once aspired to become a nun—until fate intervened in the form of Ruben Chavez from Leyba, New Mexico. Ruben was renting an apartment owned by Nancy’s father, Candido Armijo, and Nancy often said she fell for his striking blue eyes. Their connection blossomed into love, and they eventually married, building a beautiful life together.

Nancy and Ruben were blessed with three children: Anthony, Annette, and Ruben Jr. (affectionately known as Boobie). Their family grew to include four cherished grandchildren—Therese, Carlos, Nicholas, and Olivia—and two beloved great-grandchildren, Joshua and the newest addition, Adam.

Family was Nancy’s greatest joy. She devoted herself wholeheartedly to ensuring her loved ones were happy, supported, and well cared for. Whether it was making sure they had the toys they dreamed of, encouraging their education, or nurturing their growth, Nancy gave everything she had to help them thrive. Her legacy lives on in the full and joyful lives of her children and grandchildren.

Nancy’s passions extended beyond her family. She found delight in music, dancing, camping, fishing, boating, and hiking. During Easter, she would make the pilgrimage from Albuquerque to Tome Hill Park near Belen—a 30-mile journey to the site of the Three Crosses. She also hiked to El Santuario de Chimayó, embracing the spiritual and physical challenge with grace. One of her favorite destinations was Elephant Butte Lake, where she and her family would camp, boat, dance, and celebrate life together.

Professionally, Nancy was equally dedicated. She served the United States Department of Agriculture with pride, beginning her career as a secretary and rising to the role of Secretarial Subdivision Manager. Her work ethic, integrity, and leadership left a lasting impression on all who worked with her.

Nancy’s spirit, love, and laughter will be deeply missed. As she embarks on her new journey with God, Jesus Christ, and the many loved ones who have gone before her, we send her off with boundless love—beyond measure, to infinity.

Rest in peace, Mom, Grandma, and Great-Grandma. You will forever be in our hearts.

A Visitation for Nancy will be held on Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. a Rosary to be recited at 7:00 p.m. in The Gabaldon Memorial Chapel located at 1000 Old Coors Drive SW, Albuquerque, NM 87121. A Final Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 29, 2025 at 8:30 a.m. with a Mass to follow at 9:00 a.m. all to held at St. Anne Catholic Church,1400 Arenal Rd. SW with burial to follow at San Jose de Armijo Cemetery 2957 Arenal Rd. SW.