Cesaria M. Chavez

Cesaria M. Chavez of Albuquerque, New Mexico went to be with our Lord on Wednesday, August 14, 2024.

She is preceded in death by her loving husband Emilio Candelaria Chavez; son Emilio M. Chavez, Jr.; daughter Dolores Chavez; grandchildren: Marcos Nava, Jr., Savannah Chavez; parents: Natividad Archuleta Montoya and Ysidra Miranda Montoya; three siblings: Charlie Montoya, Jimmie Montoya, and one unborn, unnamed sibling; five half siblings: Encarnacion, Nate, Pedro, Aurora, and Pablo.

Cesaria is survived by her children: Eva and Jimmie Bierner, Johnny and Stacey Chavez, David Chavez, Albert Chavez and Ernie Esquibel, Darlene Chavez, Christopher and Anette Chavez, and Erica C. Gallegos, all of Albuquerque; siblings: Eusebio and Erlinda Montoya of Albuquerque, Josefita “Josie” Gurule of Albuquerque, Eloy and Sue Crowder of Truth or Consequences, NM, Edwardo “Eddy” and Molly Montoya of Truth or Consequences, NM, Alex Montoya of Santa Clara, NM, and Richard and Sharon Montoya of Radium Springs, NM; 34 grandchildren, 61 great-grandchildren; and 14 great-great-grandchildren.

Cesaria was born on May 2, 1933 in Monticello, New Mexico. Cesaria aka, “Cessie", "Honey", and "Hon” to Emilio, met in Truth or Consequences which was known as Hot Springs during that time. While Cesaria lived in Monticello and Emilio lived in Truth or Consequences they encountered each other at Emilio’s father’s funeral service. They were married on November 15, 1950.

In 1953 Cesaria gave birth to her first child, Emilio, Jr. in Truth or Consequences. In 1956 her first daughter Eva was born, a precious little red head. In 1957 second daughter Dolores was born in Albuquerque. In 1959 Johnny was born in Albuquerque. In 1960, Cesaria and Emilio had moved to the South Valley to the foothills area when David Joseph was born. “Albert” Anthony, Mom's little valentine, was born on Valentine's Day, 1962. Since Emilio Sr.'s mother’s name was Ursula, they named their child born in 1964 Darlene Ursula. In 1970 Christopher Ray was Cesária’s last born child. One would have thought he was the first child since he was so spoiled by everyone.

She was the oldest sister of nine siblings and the youngest of 5 step-siblings. As the oldest, Cesaria spent much of her time helping grandma Ysidra raise her brothers and sisters while having an existing Montoya family. During her young life she survived a poisoning appendectomy and was struck by lightning.

During her child bearing years, Cesaria worked endlessly as a homemaker to raise eight children while ensuring their health, security, safety, and  education.

Cesaria and Emilio were Nino and Nina to countless children of friends as well as their own family. They were Padrinos to many too. If you knew them as one, you would know that they loved to dance. They were regulars at leading “La Marcha” because Cesaria loved to dance.

Our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, mother-in-law, friend, and neighbor----may she rest in peace.

Cesaria's Life Celebration will begin with a Visitation on Monday, August 26, 2024, at 3:00pm at Salazar Mortuary located at 400 Third St. SW, 87102. Rosary will be recited at 6:00pm. Final Viewing will take place on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, at 8:00am at St. Anne's Catholic Church located at 1400 Arenal Rd. SW, 87105. Mass will begin at 9:00am. Cesaria will be laid to rest following the Mass at Fairview Memorial Park Cemetery located at 700 Yale Blvd. SE, 87106. Family would like to invite loved ones to the reception following the graveside at St. Anne's Parish Hall. Please contact Angel Rose Lucero for food donations.

Pallbearers will be Richard Nava, Carlos R. Nava, Johnny Lee Chavez, Dominic Abeyta, Kathleen Chavez, and Janelle Casaus.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Michael Nava, Orlando Gallegos, Josiah Chavez, David Chavez, Jr., Gwen Stacy Salgado, Emilio Chavez, Jr. IIII, Marcos Nava, Jr., and Matthew Chavez.

Monetary contributions can be made in honor of Mrs. Chavez directly to Salazar Mortuary via phone or in person.