Montoya, Esther L.
Esther L. Montoya, 68, passed away on Thursday, August 18, 2016. She succumbed to multiple myeloma cancer after a valiant three-year battle and now rests in the arms of our Heavenly Father.
Esther is survived by her daughter, Roberta Rivera and husband, James; beloved grandchildren Santiago and Sevastian, as well as Roberta’s father, Roberto Griego. She is also survived by her sister, Floraida Martinez and husband, Harold of Chimayo; two brothers, Elizardo Montoya and wife, Martina of Truchas; and Richard Montoya of Truchas. She was an inspiration to several nieces and nephews, Antionette Lopez and family, Roxanne Barela and family, Andrea and Charles Medina and family, Ted and Evelyn Martinez and family, Lisa, Karen, Jennifer and Kimberly Montoya and their families, Eric and Delubina Montoya and family, Gary Montoya and family; and Angela Montoya; and dear friends Yvonne, Gloria and Anita, along with countless others including her dear cousin, Theresa Rael.
Esther was preceded in death by her father and mother, Nabor and Delmiria Montoya, of Truchas; and sister, Viola Barela and brother-in-law, Darrell of Albuquerque.
Esther served her community as an educator, mentor, spiritual and physical healer while raising her daughter as a single mother. Esther retired with thirty plus years of service to St. Joseph’s Hospital and ten years plus of service to Presbyterian Hospital as a dietary aide. Esther also retired with thirty plus years of service from APS as an educational assistant. As a dietary aid, she served the needs of the ill and infirmed of New Mexico; and as an educational assistant, she inspired and motivated the staff and students at West Mesa High School as well as other schools throughout her APS career.
While among us, Esther industriously filled every moment with a selfless mission of service to others while maintaining a positive attitude and Christian ideology. She was very spiritual and loved spending time with her family and friends. She gave everything she had in everything that she did. She was completely devoted to her daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren. Indeed, Heaven has reclaimed an angel and we are grateful for our Lord’s gift of her love, friendship and acquaintance.
On Friday, August 26th, a Rosary will be recited at 10:30 a. m. with Mass to follow at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church, 815 Guaymas PL NE, Albuquerque, New Mexico, 87108 (intersection of Lomas and Tennessee). Immediately following will be a reception at a location yet to be determined. Interment of cremains will take place in a private ceremony in Truchas in the near future.