Josephine L. Montoya

With great sadness we say goodbye to our wonderful, sweet, loving, mom, grandmother, and friend. Josephine L. Montoya, 89 years old, was called to her resting place on Tuesday, March 16, 2021. She was born in Las Sauces, Colorado, January 6, 1932. Her parents were Fred and Tonita Mestas. She graduated from San Luis High School and won first runner up at the four-day San Luis Centennial Fiesta in 1950.

She married Elmo DeHerrera at 20 years of age and they moved to Albuquerque in 1952. She had 5 children, and 9 grandchildren: Patty Torres (Henry), daughter- Alesia (Joey); Michael DeHerrera (Vicky), children- Megan and Tibo (Alexis); Liz DeHerrera, sons- Jonathan (Crystal) and Elmo (Sarah); Diane Sand (Ken), daughter- Emily; Karen Williams, sons- Gabriel, Dominic and Dante. Her world revolved around her children, grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

Josephine married her late husband Adolfo Montoya in 1983 and they were married for 22 years. She was a great cook, loved to dance, camp, and traveled the world. Josephine worked for 25 years as an employee of the Department of Senior Affairs, City of Albuquerque.

Mom, we will never forget your beautiful smile, your feistiness, and all the love and protection you provided us. Thank you to Henry, Alesia, Joey, Jace, and her 5 caregivers, for welcoming her into their care. The private visitation will be live streamed and available for viewing by clicking on the link below on Tuesday, March 23, 2021 from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, March 24, 2021, 10:30 a.m., at St. Thomas Aquinas Parish, located at 1502 Sara Rd. SE, Rio Rancho, NM, 87124.