Gilbert Sedillo

Gilbert Sedillo, 94, beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend, passed away on Saturday, February 15, 2025.

He is preceded in death by his beloved daughter Sandra Sedillo; parents Isabel and Manuel Sedillo; brother Antonio (Mary); in-laws: Luciana and Leon Santos; sisters-in-law Essie Morales (Cecil), Marie Sandoval; brothers-in-law Leonard Santos, and Tom Donovan.

Gilbert is survived by his wife of 67 years, Lydia "Lil"; sons: Jim, David; daughter Donna (Vincent); grandchildren: Veronica, Sam; brother-in-law John Santos (Elva); sisters-in-law Sally Donovan, Sue Santos as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Gilbert was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico on August 6, 1930. Gilbert was a native of Albuquerque and a descendant of Joaquin Sedillo, one of Albuquerque’s founders. Gilbert grew up in the Atrisco part of Albuquerque and was an heir of the Atrisco land grant. He served in the U.S. Army as a PFC Combat Medic with the 45th Combat Division during the Korean War and was awarded the Combat Badge. When he returned to the states, he was stationed in Colorado Springs where he met the love of his life, Lil, at a dance. They were married on June 2, 1956, and moved to Albuquerque to start their life and their family. They lived in the same house for 60 years in Westgate where they made friends that lasted a lifetime including special compadres Vicente and Clara Sanchez. Gilbert was a kind and patient father and an exceptional grandfather who showered his grandchildren with love and devotion. He loved to read and retained a wealth of knowledge from the books he read.

Gilbert began his career with the U.S. Postal Service on the train where he met friends who would become compadres and with whom he and Lil would spend wonderful times including evenings at the American Legion. After he retired from the Post Office, Gilbert and Lil enjoyed spending time with their children and grandchildren and enjoyed traveling with John and Elva Santos. They watched Jeopardy! together every night and prayed the Rosary together every afternoon.

Gilbert enjoyed a good and full life and considered himself blessed.  Those who met him enjoyed his company and his warm smile.  He is enjoying his heavenly reward, and no doubt heard the words, “Welcome good and faithful servant” upon his arrival.

Gilbert's Life Celebration will be begin with a Rosary to be recited on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 10:00am at San Martin de Porres Catholic Church located at 8301 San Martin Camino SW, 87121. Mass will begin at 10:30 a.m. Gilbert will be laid to rest following the Mass at Mount Calvary Cemetery located at 1900 Edith Blvd NE, 87102. A reception following the burial will be held inside Salazar Mortuary Event Center, located at 400 Third St. SW, 87102.

Pallbearers will be James Sedillo, David Sedillo, Vincent Apodaca, Sam Apodaca, Rick Corral, and David Anaya.