Louis Pacias

Louis Pacias was called home on Saturday, March 29, 2025, surrounded by his family and a VFW Auxiliary friend.

Louis was born August 6, 1960 in the Sawmill area of Northwest Albuquerque. Louis was devoted to his family and  he was a compassionate husband, father, grandfather, son and brother.

Louis was preceded in death by his father Robert Billy Pacias, brother Robert Pacias, paternal grandfather Carmen Pacias, paternal grandmother, Sofia Pacias, maternal grandfather Carlos Lovato, maternal grandmother Maria Lovato, father-in-law Robert A. Martinez, and mother-in-law Ida Martinez.

Louis is survived by his wife of 27 years Jonetta Martinez-Pacias, daughter Amanda Silva (Nathan), son Roman Valdez (April), mother Dora Pacias, sister Sophia Pacias (David), grandchildren: Caleb McMahon, Brandon Silva, Ida Valdez, Zoe Valdez, and many uncles, aunts, cousins and friends.

A proud graduate of Albuquerque High School, Louis began his career with Youth Development, Inc. (YDI) at the age of 19 years old. Louis always had a passion for serving youth who were disadvantaged.  Throughout Louis’ 30+ years at YDI, Louis served youth and families at different capacities with the Juvenile Community Corrections Program. While there he served as Case Manager, Supervisor, and Director. Louis was committed to creating opportunities for youth to be successful members of the community. When Louis left YDI to work for the State of NM Children, Youth and Families Department he knew he could make a more impactful difference. Louis was influential in working with Boards, Continuums, and creating policy that would have long term effects on the youth of the state. Louis dedicated himself to improving the lives of others through hard work, often seen as a mentor and role model by advocating for positive change. Louis was someone who had the ability to bring people to work together, even if they didn’t agree, knowing that it was for the good of the youth. Louis was a good listener and always worked at coming to a solution. Louis never wanted or expected accolades for his work, and it wasn’t until late in his life that some of his many contributions were shared with us. Louis’ smile, and the memories shared will forever be cherished by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of crossing paths with him.

Louis belonged to different organizations, but one that he was so proud of was the VFW Auxiliary. As a life-time member of the VFW Auxiliary, Post 401 and Post 3370, he enjoyed sitting down with the comrades and talking to them about their experiences. He enjoyed participating in community events that supported Veterans and their families. As a member, he served as an Auxiliary Guard and District 2 Guard.

Louis was a peacemaker, and some described him as a gentle giant. His kindness and generosity touched so many lives in his personal, professional, family and spiritual life. Louis and his family loved spending time together eating, watching movies, and traveling. Louis lived a simple life with a small circle of friends who made him laugh through memories and just enjoying each other’s company.  Louis will leave a big void on those that he touched, but we will always remember Louis’ words that he often shared in times of hurt and struggle, “Don’t worry about a thing, ‘cause every little thing gonna be alright” (Bob Marley)

Louis' Life Celebration will begin with a Gathering on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at 6:00pm at Salazar Mortuary located at 400 Third St. SW, 87102. Rosary will be recited at 7:00pm. Mass will be held on Friday, April 4, 2025, at 11:30am at Our lady of the Most Holy Rosary Catholic Church located at 5415 Fortuna Rd. NW, 87105. Family would like to invite everyone to the reception at VFW Post 401 following the mass located at 2011 Girard Blvd SE, 87102.

Serving as pallbearers are two of his lifelong friends John Pavlides and Nick Minetos, two of his many cousins Lawerence Padilla and Victor Lovato, and his two grandsons Caleb McMahon and Brandon Silva.

In lieu of flowers bring a house plant for Louis' family to care for in memory of Louis or consider donating to a youth organization of your choice.