Patricia Herrera

Patricia (Patsy) J Herrera, 83, passed away peacefully in her home in Albuquerque, NM on Saturday October 14, 2023.  She was born February 6, 1940, in Roy, New Mexico to Alfonso and Rachel Lujan.  Patsy spent her early years on her family's ranch in Sabinoso, NM. Tough as nails and with true grit, she was known for riding anything that had four legs, with a spirit as strong as the animals she rode. Her family moved from their ranch in Sabinoso to Roy, NM as the family grew and for educational purposes. The eldest of thirteen siblings, Patsy appointed herself as caretaker and rule setter. She was well known amongst the sibling ranks as an authoritarian figure that took the lead in keeping the rambunctious household in order.  After graduating from Roy High School, she married Robert Herrera on August 30, 1958. The newlyweds lived in Las Vegas, NM while Robert finished his degree and the couple then moved to Albuquerque, NM.  Patsy's career started as a homemaker until the early 70's, when she went to work for Gulton Industries, a military and aerospace electronics contractor. She retired after dedicating 30 years of service as a Quality Control Inspector, working on countless military projects as well as many Space Shuttle initiatives.  Her most endearing job that demonstrates her loyalty and fortitude, was that of a caretaker. She dealt with great adversity as her husband Robert, who suffered a stroke in 1992, needed constant care. She rose to the occasion for 27 years to be by his side and honor her marriage vows lead by her strong faith and core values until his passing in 2019.

Patsy is survived by her sons Patrick (Mary) Herrera and Rodric (Rosanna) Herrera; two grandsons Chad (Brittany) Miller of Las Cruces and Matteo Herrera of Albuquerque; two great grandchildren Diesel Miller and Makenzie Miller; siblings Thelma Esquivel, Mary Kerlee, Rachel Gonzales, Barbara Salazar, Al Lujan, Maxine Shaw, Louis Lujan, Kathy Salazar, Greg Lujan, Roberta Kirkpatrick, Jane Garcia and Yvette Lujan as well as a multitude of nieces and nephews.  Patsy is preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Robert and daughter Roberta Miller.

A Rosary will be recited Thursday, November 2, 2023, at 6:00 PM at FRENCH-Lomas. A Funeral Mass will be said Friday, November 3, 2023, at 12:00 PM at the Shrine of St. Bernadette Catholic Church, 11509 Indian School Rd NE, 87112. Interment will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 7999 Wyoming Blvd NE, 87109.