Joseph Saavedra

Joseph Saavedra



The phrase "pennies from heaven" has taken on new meaning for those who mourn the death of

Joseph Saavedra from Covid-19.

Joseph was the founder of

Pennies for the Homeless, an

organization that supports homeless service providers. Along with late Judge Diane Dal Santo, he started the charity in 1993 to educate students about homelessness and spread the message that every penny counts. He raised more than half a million dollars by producing the hugely popular "High Tea and Fashion Show" featuring international designers. The Penny Man, as he was called, earned a reputation as a sought-after hair stylist and make-up artist with celebrity clients. He often tapped them to support the homeless.

Joseph's calling as a hair stylist began when he was 9 years old. He was orphaned and raised by his grandparents and an aunt in Barelas. It was in the barrio where he began to style hair for family and neighbors. Despite the bullying and abuse he suffered as a young boy, he pursued his dreams and opened "Joseph's" in the early 80's which infused a sense of style and glamour to Albuquerque. He mentored dozens of hairstylists, was a national teaching rep for MatrixColor, invented the Colorake tools, and greatly influenced the work of his peers.

He took his talents to Palm Springs where his celebrity clientele included Jill St. John, Stephanie Powers, and Betty Ford. But his most coveted client was Barbara Sinatra. Joseph became her personal hair and makeup artist. (He'd often watch "Jeopardy" with Frank). Joseph worked with Mrs. Sinatra closely on her Center for Sexually Abused Children.

After years of rubbing elbows with the rich and famous, Joseph returned to Albuquerque to ground himself and find true purpose in his life. That's when Pennies for the Homeless was born. He related strongly with those who are cast aside, which included his animal friends. Joseph rescued dozens of animals and injured birds. He owned miniature horses that he trained for competition and earned several championship ribbons. Joseph felt his greatest sense of peace and love with his horses - and yes, he took great care of their manes.

Joseph navigated the world between hardship and the high life. Recently, he overcame a devastating disease that left him unable to talk and walk. His miraculous recovery was due to his faith in God and sheer determination. Like a penny, he'd fall to the ground, get up and made his life count. Now, the Penny Man has earned his eternal home.

Joseph is survived by his ex-wife Dawn Hunter, some close relatives, and the precious family he created for himself.

A tribute will be held during the Pennies for the Homeless High Tea and Fashion show on November 21, 2021. Donations in memory of Joseph Saavedra can be made to the Pennies for the Homeless Fund @ Albuquerque Community Foundation,

ABQCF.org