d. October 12, 2024
It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Floraida Archuleta Sanchez.
Floraida was born September 13, 1936 in Amalia, New Mexico, and went to be with our Lord on October 12, 2024. Our mother passed peacefully at home, surrounded by family.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Epimenio and Benina Archuleta; her husband, William Sanchez; her sons, Billy and Manuel Sanchez; her daughters, Betty and Esther Sanchez; her siblings, Joe, Johnny, Anthony, and Epimenio Jr. Archuleta; her sister-in-law, Clorinda Archuleta; and her special aunt and cherished friend, Elizabeth Santistevan.
She is survived by her children: Emilio (Marie), Theresa (Wilfred), Geraldine (Bernie), David (Valerie), and Ronnie (Kathy). She is also survived by her sisters, Martha (Eliseo) and Susie (Elifas), and her sister-in-law, Virginia Archuleta.
She had 21 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson, along with many nieces, nephews, and friends.
Floraida grew up with her siblings on the family farm in Amalia. After completing their chores, they enjoyed playing outside until it was dark.
Her legacy began when she met the love of her life, William Sanchez, who built their home where they raised eight children. She had a strong faith in her religion and prayer, instilling these values in her family. To her family and friends, she was a pillar of strength and wisdom; they often sought her advice and were drawn to her spunky personality.
Floraida had unconditional love for her grandchildren and was known as “Grandma Sunshine” to them. She had a close relationship with each of them and always offered open, loving hugs, often accompanied by a playful punch to the belly. Floraida had a fun-loving, playful attitude full of laughter, and you never knew what she was going to say next.
She was most at peace when caring for her garden of flowers and her pets, sitting quietly and gazing out her window, enjoying the beauty and serenity of Amalia.
The family wishes to acknowledge, with deep appreciation, the many expressions of love, concern, and kindness shown to them during this time of bereavement. May God bless you.
A celebration of life funeral services was held at the Sacred Heart Church in Costilla, with rosary on October 25 at 6pm and mass on October 26 at with the burial to follow at Santo Nino cemetery in Amalia.
