Samuel Pantoja

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Sammy D. Pantoja, a man whose presence was not just a part of our lives but a part of who we all became in a line of many generations. He left us on March 11th, 2025, at the age of 73, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering support.

Sammy Pantoja was born January 3, 1952, in Marfa Texas to Luis and Delfina Pantoja. Sammy spent his early years in Valantine Texas before his family moved to Roswell NM in 1955. Sammy attended schools in Roswell before Joining the US Navy in 1969. After his Naval Service Sammy moved back to Roswell. Over the years Sammy spent his time between Roswell and Albuquerque before settling in Albuquerque in the late 1980s for good.

Sammy Retired from the US Postal Service in 2018 after a 20-year career. Before the Postal Service Sam taught himself many skills that he used his entire life including salesman, entrepreneur, cement finisher and carpenter. He was extremely content when he was doing projects around his house whether remodeling or landscaping. Most of the time his yard was normally the nicest on the block.

More than just a husband, father, brother, uncle, cousin and friend, he was a leader, mentor, our softball pitcher, a confidant, and a steady hand through life's storms for which many sought guidance. His wisdom shaped our choices, his humor brightened our days ("I know huh"), and his kindness reminded us of the goodness in the world. Whether through shared stories, quiet understanding, or his steadfast belief in us, he became woven into the world of our existence as he truly was one of us!

Sammy Loved the outdoors. Teaching anyone who would listen how to hunt and fish and to just enjoy hanging out by the fire with a cold beer and his cigar. He was still playing softball with the young guys into his 60's.

Sammy married his beloved wife Claudia in August of 2019 who survives him at the family home.

Sam was a beloved Uncle to Robert Pantoja, Paul Pantoja, Lana Pantoja, Darren Pantoja, Roberta Pantoja, Gavin Pantoja, Michelle Pantoja, Eric Pantoja, Joe Lerma, Dennis Araujo, John Mas Ornelas Jr, John Anthony Ornelas, Christopher Ornelas and Samantha Pantoja.

Sammy was preceded in Death by his Beloved son Samuel Pantoja. His Parents Luis and Delfina Pantoja and his little sister Rose Ornelas.

Sammy is survived by his Brothers Ismael (Carol) Pantoja, Robert (Linda) Pantoja, Ricky Pantoja and his sister Edwina Araujo. Children Robert (Dottie) Narvaiz. Daughter-in-law Jennifer Pantoja

His Grandchildren Torin Pantoja, Danica Pantoja, Halee Richey, Robert Paul Narvaiz, Samantha Narvaiz, Mari Narvaiz and Jazmine Narvaiz.

Pallbearers are Robert Narvaiz, Robert Pantoja, Paul Pantoja, Gavin Pantoja, Dennis Araujo, Christopher Ornelas, Eric Pantoja and Eric Delgado. Honorary Pallbearers are Torin Pantoja, Danica Pantoja and Halee Richey.

His family and friends will forever cherish the memories of his warmth and guidance. Though he is no longer physically with us, his spirit lives on in the values he instilled, the lessons he taught, and the love he so freely gave.

Services:

March 25, 2025, at 10:00 AM

French Funeral Home

10500 Lomas Blvd.

Albuquerque NM

Final Resting Place Sunset Memorial Park