Josie Chavez (Chavez) Sanchez

Josie Chavez Sanchez, 90, a resident of Rociada, New Mexico, passed away at her home on March14, 2025.  She was born on September 8,1934 in Rociada, New Mexico to Adolfo Chavez and Deluvina Martinez.  She was lovingly raised by her uncle and aunt, Rumundo and Eufrocina “Grandma Frosty” Hurtado, who played a special role in shaping the strong compassionate woman she became.

            Josie dedicated her life to hard work and caring for others.  She spent her career as a waitress, serving with grace and warmth at Pendaries Country Club and at various restaurants in Las Vegas, Los alamos, and Rio Rancho.  She brought joy and friendliness to every table that she served, making lasting connections with those around her.

            A true lover of the outdoors, Josie found happiness in nature and the company of her dogs. She and her beloved husband, Manuel Avita-Ruiz, were often seen cruising through the canyon with their loyal dog Daisy by their side.  Josie had a passion for dancing and was a regular at local dances in Mora and Las Vegas, where her vibrant spirit always lit up the room.

Her home was a place of comfort and hospitality.  No one ever left hungry or without a treat. Josie’s loyalty to her friends and family was unwavering, and she was known for her fearlessness, her big heart, and her ability to make anyone feel welcome.

            Josie is preceded in death by her first husband, Joe Tony Sanchez; her parents-in-law, Amadeo and Carolina Sanchez; her brothers:  Adolfo, Eugenio, Ernie, Joe, and Gilbert Chavez; and her sisters: Flora Hernandez, Aurora Trujillo, Eloisa Casados, and Maria Chavez.  She was also preceded in death by her brothers-in-law Arturo and Valentin Sanchez; and her sisters-in-law: Senorina Sanchez, Celina Sanchez, Angie Cowden, and Mary Martinez.

            She is survived by her loving husband, Manuel Avitia-Ruiz; her son, William Sanchez, and her grandson, Dylin Montoya.  She is also survived by her sisters, Sadie Maria Espinoza and Anna Franco, and a sister-in-law, Nea Lucero, and Kremhida Sanchez as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends who will miss her dearly.  The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Anvoi Hospice, Dr. Jesus Tafoya, special angel, Maggie Mallette Rivera, and dear friends Margaret Rodarte and Ida Martinez for their loving care and support and to Charlie Sandoval at the Spic & Span. A special thank you from the family to Billy Rogers and Staff at Gonzales Funerals & Cremations..

            A visitation will be held on Friday, April 25, 2025 at Gonzales Funerals & Cremations, 2315 Hot Springs Blvd. from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m.  Services will be held at Our Lady of Sorrows Church on Saturday, April 26, 2025 with a rosary at 9:30 a.m. followed by the Mass of Christian Burial. She will be laid to rest in the San Antonio Cemetery in Upper Rociada, NM.

Serving as pallbearers will be Martin Suazo, Elmer Martinez, Patricio Padilla, Mike McFall, Jerry Dimas, and Randy Nakasone . Josie’s legacy and kindness, and strength will live on in the hearts of those who knew her.

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