Elfego G. Aranda, Jr.

Elfego G. “Jay” Aranda went to be with our Lord on Wednesday, April 9, 2025. He passed peacefully with his three daughters by his side, after living a full life of 98 years as a son, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather.

Elfego was born on April 30, 1927, to Elfego G. Aranda, Sr. and his wife Anita, who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his beloved wife Vangie; siblings: Haydee, Rita, Rosella, Eddie, and son-in-law Jeff Elks.

He is survived by his daughters: Beverly Elks, Jayne Aranda, Belinda Snyder (Chris); grandchildren: Ray Elks (Rosette), Sean Elks (Whitney), Alysea Aranda Lightle (Adam), Noelle Higgins (Andrew), and Alyssa Cameron (Bret); as well as seven great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

Elfego was a proud Marine and served his country from July 1945 through October 1947. After his service in World War II, he graduated from El Rito High School in 1947. He and Vangie married in 1950 and shared a beautiful, devoted, and loving life together.

He worked as a comptroller for New Mexico Title Company in Albuquerque for over 40 years. His true joy was his ranch, where he spent every weekend before retirement and even more time afterward. He loved his Dallas Cowboys, trips to Las Vegas and the casino, going out for breakfast, and above all—cookies and sweets.

Elfego leaves behind a legacy of laughter and heartfelt memories. His sense of humor, love of life, and deep devotion to his wife and children will never be forgotten.

Elfego, we will miss you dearly but rejoice in knowing you are reunited with our beloved mother, Vangie. Your smile and your laugh will forever echo in our hearts. You will be missed until we meet again.

Elfego’s Life Celebration will begin with a Visitation on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at 10:00am at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church located at 1860 Griegos Rd NW, 87107. Rosary will be recited at 10:30am. Mass will begin at 11:00am. Burial will follow Mass at Mount Calvary Cemetery located at 1900 Edith Blvd. NE, 87102. Reception will follow Burial at Our Lady of Guadalupe.

Pallbearers will be Chris Snyder, Raymond Elks, Sean Elks, Adam Aranda Lightle, Andrew Higgins, and Johnny Garcia.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Randy Garcia, Ruben Cervantes, Michael Gutierrez, Ernie Gutierrez, Paul Gutierrez, Toby Mark Gallegos, and Margarito Chariez.