Cecilia Valdez (nee Velasquez), passed away on Tuesday, April 6, 2021 at the age of 87.

She was born in Chandler, CO, to Augustin Velasquez and Lorenza Galindo on July 19, 1933.

The oldest of three children, her younger brother Rudy Velasquez preceded her in death in 2012.

Cecilia is survived by her younger brother Augustine “Augie” Velasquez.

In 1954, she married Richard J Valdez and their inseparable union would last sixty-three years until Richard passed in March, 2017.

Cecilia and Richard had three children: Lore, Margie, and Richard, Jr. Cecilia was a devout Catholic who lived a life of service. She devoted her life to her husband, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Cecilia was a member of the Salt Creek sewing club and had numerous friends and family in Pueblo and Albuquerque, NM, where Cecilia and Richard ultimately retired to.

Cecilia is now with her husband in eternal peace.

Cecilia's Life Celebration will begin with a Rosary on Friday, April 23, 2021 at 11:30am at Holy Ghost Catholic Church located at 833 Arizona St SE, 87108. Mass will follow at 12:00 pm. Cecilia will be laid to rest with her husband on Monday, April 26, 2021 at 3:00pm at the Santa Fe National Cemetery located at 501 N. Guadalupe St, Santa Fe, NM 87501.

The family suggests that in lieu of flowers a donation can be made in her memory to Holy Ghost Catholic School located at 6201 Ross Ave. SE, 87108; phone: 505-256-1563;  email: office@hgcsabq.com