d. January 20, 2025
Ruth Archuleta, 89, of Cerro, NM, and a resident of Meadows Home, Las Vegas, NM, passed away peacefully surrounded by her children at Alta Vista Regional Hospital on Monday, Jan. 20, 2025. Born in 1935 in Antonito, CO, she was one of thirteen children of the late Gil Blas and Clorinda Gallegos. She is preceded in death by her husband Tomas Archuleta, several siblings, and numerous extended family members. Ruth is survived by her six children, Felix Archuleta Jr “Tato,” Patsy (Lorenzo) Aceves, Raymond “Dino” (Krystal) Archuleta, Denise (Edward) Vigil, Deborah Carroll, and Jamie Archuleta, as well as her remaining siblings, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, godchildren, and friends.
Raised in a ranching family, Ruth spent her youth herding sheep and cattle across the rugged landscapes of northern New Mexico, acquiring skills such as horseback riding, tractor operation, and her signature sharp whistle. She left home to study nursing in Denver but soon married Felix Archuleta and started a family in Boone, CO. Early on, she worked on potato and onion farms while raising her children before the family relocated to New Mexico, where Ruth became a successful business owner. Talented in crafts, sewing, and cooking, she operated several businesses, including Ruth’s Flowers and Gifts, El Seville Restaurant in Questa, and El Sombrero Cafés in Eagle Nest and Ranchos de Taos. Later, after becoming a single mother, she continued her entrepreneurial path, running additional flower shops, restaurants, and cafés across northern New Mexico.
Following in her father’s political footsteps, Ruth was an active Republican and ran for Taos County Clerk in 1986. She was also deeply involved in community events, known for her elaborate parade floats and generous holiday traditions. She and her family established an annual Christmas dinner for those in need, an act of kindness that gained recognition in The Taos News. Her generosity extended to quilt-making, with many donated to shelters and loved ones. She also opened her home to relatives and others in need, ensuring no one was left behind. In her later years, she became a caregiver for her Great Tía Natividad Vigil, demonstrating her lifelong commitment to family and service.
Ruth’s passions included music, dancing, sewing, beadwork, piñon picking, bingo, and gambling—where her luck was legendary. She won four vehicles at bingo and slot machines, a feat that once again landed her in The Taos News. Never one to sit idle, she enjoyed driving luxury cars, decorating with rhinestones, and taking family and friends on road trips in her motorhome. She even took on a job shuttling casino-goers through northern New Mexico, often driving late nights and treacherous roads with determination. Known as “The Energizer Bunny,” Ruth’s resilience and unwavering spirit left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
The family extends their deepest gratitude to the staff of Alta Vista Regional Hospital, Meadows Home Long Term Care, and Red Willow Hospice for their compassionate care. Special thanks to Father Dennis Garcia for Ruth’s final blessing, as well as Rivera Family Funeral Home for their loving arrangements. The family is also grateful to all who visited, called, and prayed for Ruth during her illness. She will be dearly missed.
