Magdalena Garcia

Magdalena Garcia, beloved matriarch and cherished friend, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her family on October 29, 2025 at the age of 86. She was born September 5, 1939 in Derramadero, NM. She was raised in the communities of Carnero and Encino, where she cultivated a deep connection to her roots and to the people around her.

Magdalena attended Encino High School and was a Wildcat for life. She graduated in 1959, just before embarking on a fulfilling career dedicated to her community. She served as the clerk and treasurer for the Village of Encino, where her commitment and diligence left a lasting impact. On December 26, 1959 she was united in marriage to Lorenzo Garcia at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Encino. Together, they created a life anchored in faith, culture, love and family.

A proud parishioner of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, Magdalena devoted many years to the upkeep of the church as Mayordoma. Her contributions included routinely changing the flowers that adorned the sacred space, showcasing her love for beauty and community service. She was also a member of the Cursillo, reflecting her deep faith and commitment to her spiritual growth.

Magdalena had a passion for creativity and was known as a skilled seamstress. She lovingly made clothes and costumes for her family and enjoyed quilting. Her green thumb led to a flourishing garden that captivated the attention of photographers which was exhibited throughout the state. An active individual, she loved to prepare meals for her loved ones, famously making fresh tortillas daily. A labor of love that brought warmth to her home. She cooked 3 square meals a day for her entire family so they could work and attend school. She also cared for all of her grandchildren throughout their lives.

Magdalena is survived by her children, Ernie and Henrietta Garcia of Encino, and Corrina and Jeff Sanchez of Santa Fe, and her dear sister Ruthie Apodaca and nephews Lonnie Apodaca and Ruben Rodriquez. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Heather (Kevin) Sanchez, Kevin (Vanessa) Garcia, Jonathan (Patricia) Chavez, Matilda (Johnny) Griego, Christina Chavez, James (Arianna) Sanchez, Jerome (Sussette) Sanchez, Ashley (Kyler) Silva, Aryka Garcia, and Alysha (Nethanyel Smith) Garcia. Her legacy also lives on through her great-grandchildren: Mariah Sanchez, Angel Sanchez, David Sanchez, Skyler Sanchez, Angelica Chavez, Dionesia Chavez, Martine Griego, Irene Gurule, Leanza Martinez, Stacy Sanchez, Jeremiah Sanchez, Kaidus Silva, Kailynn Silva, Keegan Smith, and Violet Smith; and great-great grandchildren Aliah, Miaa and Kehlani. She also leaves behind her beloved fur baby, Lulu, and numerous nephews, nieces, family, and friends, who will all miss her dearly.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Lorenzo Garcia; her parents, Lucas and Aurora Apodaca; her daughter, Loretta Chavez and son-in-law Edwin Chavez; her brothers, Ernesto Apodaca and Willie Apodaca, Sr.; and her mother-in-law and father-in-law, Juan and Dolores Garcia.

The family would also like to give a special thank you to Sunni Osborn from Helping Hands Hospice for the amazing and compassionate care she showed Magdalena during her short time with her.

Magdalena's life was a testament to love, service, faith and family. Her spirit will continue to inspire all those who had the privilege of knowing her. The visitation for Magdalena Garcia will take place on November 6, 2025 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Encino, NM, followed by the rosary and funeral service beginning at 10:00 AM at Our Lady of Guadalupe. Interment will follow at Encino Cemetery at 11:45 AM. She will forever hold a special place in the hearts of her family and friends.

Services are under the direction of Chavez Funeral Home of Santa Rosa, 923 S. Third St., Santa Rosa, NM 88435. 575-472-3369.