James E. Vigil

Age 70, beloved husband, brother, uncle & nephew passed away August 2, 2014 after a short illness. James was born in Taos & later made Albuquerque home. He was preceded in his death by his parents, Bences & Fabiola Vigil of Taos, infant brother Allen-Marcus, Grandparents Luciano & Florida Martinez of Taos, Grandparents JNR and Domitila Vigil of Ranchos de Taos. James is survived by Gloria, his wife of 49 years & soul mate since the 3rd grade at St. Joseph's Elementary in Taos. He is also survived by his beloved brothers, Allen (Geraldine), Jerome (Kitty), Mario (Carla), and Keith (Liz), many aunts, uncles,Godchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins & dear friends . James graduated from Central Catholic High School in 1961, obtained his BA Degree from UNM & retired as the Safety Director for the City of Albuquerque in 1998. After retirement, James held a private practice teaching defensive driving classes throughout New Mexico. He was a parishioner at Annunciation Catholic Church in Albuquerque. His hobbies included collecting antique and toy cars along with involvement in hundreds of classic antique car shows. James was a volunteer and a member of various clubs and organizations to include MADD, Albuquerque Wheel's Museum, Safer NM Now, National Safety Council, AAA Car Club where he received many trophies and awards. James made time to help his wife Gloria with their travel and involvement with the NM Engelbert Humperdink Fan Club. James loved his family, especially his aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews, who held a mutual admiration and respect for him and were constantly in awe of his toy car collection. James had many special friends who became his family. James will always be remembered for his humorous and friendly personality, extreme generosity, dignity and respect for everyone he met. All funeral arrangements are on Friday, August 8th. Rosary, at 10 am at Our Lady of Annunciation Catholic Church (2532 Vermont NE Albuquerque) followed by Funeral Mass at 11 am and Interment at 12:30 pm at Sunset Memorial Park.