John Naranjo

JOHN PETER NARANJO, our beloved and handsome dad, grandpa, brother, uncle, and friend, was called home to be with the Lord on February 23, 2025.

Born and raised in Española, New Mexico, John remained deeply rooted in his hometown throughout his life. He graduated from McCurdy High School in 1982 and went straight into the family business, Valley Superette, where he dedicated many years of hard work and service. When he wasn’t busy at the store, you could often find him outdoors, making memories with his children. He was the rock of his family—providing strength, love, and unwavering support whenever he could.

John was not only a devoted father to his seven children and a loving grandfather, but he was also full of life. He had a deep appreciation for nature and found peace in the outdoors—whether fishing, camping, hunting or simply enjoying the fresh air. His unshakable sweet tooth meant he never turned down a good treat, and his jokester spirit kept those around him smiling. With a kind heart, an open door, and a willingness to offer advice or lend a helping hand, he had a unique way of bringing warmth and laughter even on the hardest days.

John was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Juan and Elisa Naranjo; maternal grandparents Pablo and Anita Gonzales; parents Pete and Carmen Naranjo; sisters Theresa and Monica Naranjo; and his son John Naranjo Jr.

He is survived by his loving children: Kandice Martinez and husband Josh, along with their children Seth, Jalen, Gianna, Arielle, and Zarianna Martinez; Michael Naranjo and companion Gabby, along with their children Julian, Leila Naranjo and Donny; Christopher Naranjo and companion Miguel; Theresa Naranjo; Chantelle Naranjo; and stepson Scott Jackson Naranjo. He is also survived by his partner, Ruth Naranjo, and granddaughters Devyn, LeAndra, Aniyah, and Analia Naranjo.

John leaves behind his sisters, Bernadette Montoya and companion Jimmy Martinez, and Elizabeth Pena and husband Chris. He is also survived by his nephews, Ricky(Aryssa) and Allen Montoya, and nieces, Shevonne and Leah Pena, and Vanessa Reyes (husband Benigno), along with great-nephews, great-nieces, and many extended family members and friends who cherished him.

A Public Viewing will be at 5:30 pm on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at DeVargas Funeral Home in Espanola, NM, with a Memorial Service to follow at 6:00 pm.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 am at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Santa Cruz, NM, on Friday, March 14, 2025, with burial to follow at the Holy Cross Cemetery in El Llano, NM>

Pallbearers will be Christopher Naranjo, Michael Naranjo, Joshua Martinez, Seth Martinez, Jalen Martinez, and Scott Jackson. Honorary pallbearers will be Chantelle Naranjo, Theresa Naranjo, Kandice Martinez, Gianna Martinez, Julian Naranjo, and all of his grandchildren.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the kind words, love, and support during this difficult time. Though his passing leaves an unfillable void, his memory and the love he shared will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

Romans 14:8 

“For if we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So then, whether we live or die, we are the Lord's“

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