Aurora Archuleta

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our family matriarch, Aurora Catalina Archuleta, lovingly referred to as "Granny" and “Nanny”. Aurora lit the world and the lives of her family for 95 years and was reborn to Heaven into eternal life on March 27, 2024.

Aurora was born in El Guache, New Mexico on March 22, 1929, to Lazaro and Gregorita Salazar. She spent her childhood years forging unbreakable bonds with her many siblings.

Aurora loved her family above all and lived a life defined by kindness, compassion, and unwavering strength. Her gentle smile and comforting embrace were constants in our lives, offering solace in times of need and celebrating in times of joy. She possessed a rare blend of grace and resilience that inspired all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Aurora is preceded in death by her husband Alfonso Archuleta Sr.; parents Lazaro and Gregorita; sisters Lorencita, Octavianita, Louisa, Juanita, Rosarito; brothers Arsenio, Jose, Philiberto, Epifanio, Grandson Michael L. Salazar; and Godson Michael D. Salazar.

She is survived by her children Augusta, Dianna, Anna, Alfonso Jr. (Emily), Adolf (JoJo), Raymond (Georgeann); sister Toni; grandchildren Brock (Angela), Ramona (Daniel), Alissa, Issac (Racquel), Tammy (Ben), Alfonso (Victoria), Michelle, Adam (Brittany), Aaron, Dominic, Miranda, and Donovan; great-grandchildren Julianne (Joseph), Dylan (Katey), Aubriana, Rafael, Athena, Dorian, Julia and their mother Christina, Xander and his mother Maria, Zane, Jordan, Beliah, Destiny, Jeremiah, Jacob, Mason, Aurora, Alice, Amelia, Everlee, James; great-great-granddaughter Jaynee Rai; sisters-in-law Mary (Orlando) Silva and Leona Mascareñas; Physical therapist Josh Garcia (aka Fernando) who was like a son; best friend who was like a daughter Nadine Martinez, and many more loving relatives far too numerous to name.

Aurora was the pillar of our family, a source of unconditional love and support. Her home was a sanctuary of warmth and laughter, where every visit felt like coming home. Her legacy of love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. Though she may no longer walk beside us, her spirit will forever linger in the cherished memories we hold dear. As we mourn her passing, let us also celebrate the beautiful life she lived and the profound impact she had on each of us.

The family would like to express their gratitude for the loving care that was provided to our mama and grandma from Harmony Home and Health and Bosque Trails Hospice.

Rosary will be held on April 12, 2024, at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Santa Cruz, New Mexico at 10:30 am with a Mass to follow at 11:00 am. 

The family of Aurora Archuleta has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home of the beautiful Espanola Valley. www.devargasfuneral.com 505-747-7477.