Molly D. (Sandoval) Martinez

Born May 12, 1951, in La Pasada, NM, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2025, at Presbyterian Rust Medical Center in Rio Rancho, NM, surrounded by the love of her family.

Molly was preceded in death by her parents, Benito and Leonarda Sandoval; the father of her children, Casimiro “Casey” Encinias Jr.; her longtime significant other, Florian G. Castillo; her brothers, Clemente, Aurelio, Gene, and Beatrize Sandoval; her sister, Mercedes “Mercy” Knuppel; her brother-in-law Juan J. Valencia; and her sisters-in-law, Nancy and Gloria Sandoval; her niece Josephine “Josie” Sandoval, with whom she shared  a particularly close and loving bond; and a step-grandson Steven “Nevets” Lovato.

            Molly had a profound passion for music, song, and dance, particularly her deep connection to New Mexico Spanish music.  For 15 years, she and Florian passionately led the Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe Church Choir, where they were not just members but the heart and soul of the music ministry.  Together, they produced a beautiful sound that lifted spirits and was loved by many, and Molly’s magnificent voice was a central and beloved element of that memory.  For those who knew her best, Molly’s life was a constant melody-she was always singing and dancing, whether joyfully in the car, humming a tune in the kitchen, or simply moving to the rhythm wherever she happened to be.  She found immense joy in dancing, and it was an integral part of her vibrant spirit.  Beyond the choir, she and Florian were known as she musical duo “Flor y Molly.” and Molly’s voice was an integral part of Florian’s band, “La Banda Flor.” She was also a dedicated member of the Immaculate Conception Church in Las Vegas NM.

                        Molly found peace and pleasure in fishing, especially in the Pecos River at her childhood home, and treasured the time spent with her children and grandchildren.  Molly and Casey opened their hearts and home to many foster children, providing them with love and support.

            She is survived by her partner, Lester “Les” Fairchild of Medanales, NM; her loving children:  Elena Martinez and George of Las Vegas, NM; Amanda Lovato and Dennis of Pecos, NM; and son Ben Casey Encinias with Jerome Duran of Las Vegas, NM.  She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren:  Christopher Carrillo and Andrea, Rudy Carrillo and Amanda, Alexis and Hope Lovato, all o0f Pecos, NM, as well as her granddaughter who held a special and distinct place in her life, Denika Crespin and Vidal of Las Vegas, NM; and her adored great-grandchildren:  Christopher Carrillo, Jayden Carrillo, Isabella Carrillo CorinaRae Carrillo, Enzo Carrillo, Azriella Carrillo. Casimiro Carrillo, Aaliyah Crespin, Amelia Crespin, and Vidal Juan Crespin.   Molly also leaves behind her dear siblings:  brother Arcenio “Arcy” Sandoval and a sister Benita Valencia, both of Longmont, CO; and a sister Rufina Martinez and Francisco of Greeley, CO; as well as her sister-in-law Mabel Sandoval and her very special niece, Ashley Zamudio both of Longmont. CO; her foster children:  Georgia, Shirley, Donna, and Connie, and many nephews nieces cousins, and friends.  Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren will be serving as honorary pallbearers.

            From her children, we extend a very special and heartful and heartfelt thank you to Molly’s devoted partner, Lester “Les” Fairchild.  Your wavering love, and tender care, and the profound devotion you showed our mother, especially during her illness, will never be forgotten.  We are deeply thankful for everything that you did for her, for the comfort and joy you brought into her life, and for the love you shared so generously.  Thank you, Les, from the bottom of our hearts. The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to her oncologist, Dr. Kathryn Chan, M. D., at Nexus Health in Santa Fe, NM and the dedicated staff at Presbyterian Rust Medical Center, especially Dr. Julie C. Everette and nurses Selena, Kelly, Amy, and Raul from patient transport, as well as patient care tecs for their compassionate care and support.

            Friends and family are invited to an open casket viewing on Tuesday, May 13, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Gonzales Funerals and Cremations Chapel, located at 2315 Hot springs Blvd., Las Vegas, NM.  Immediately following the viewing, a rosary will be lovingly recited by her cherished sister, Benita Valencia, from 3:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.  Following the memorial viewing, Molly will be cremated.  The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday on Tuesday,, May 20, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the Immaculate Conception Church in Las Vegas, NM. By Father Dennis Garcia.  Graveside services will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Gallegos Road, Las Vegas, NM. A reception will follow and will be announced at a later time.  Flowers are welcome ad may be sent to the funeral home.  Arrangements are entrusted to Billy G. Rogers at Gonzales Funerals & Cremations, 2315 Hot Springs Blvd., Las Vegas. NM 505-425=9310

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