William "Billy" Valdez

William "Billy" Valdez

February 25, 1946 -

August 11, 2025

William "Billy" Valdez was born on February 25, 1946, in Mount Harris, Colorado, to Jose Ubaldo Valdez and Mary Grace Lopez. One of eleven children, he grew up in a large and lively household with two brothers and eight sisters.

On August 9, 2025, while camping with family, William suffered a medical episode and was taken to Conejos County Hospital, and then airlifted to Penrose Hospital in Colorado Springs. Surrounded by his loved ones, he passed away peacefully at 9:16 p.m. on August 11, 2025 at the age of 79.

William attended and graduated from Valley High School, Albuquerque, New Mexico in 1964. He began his career with Mountain Bell in 1971 and was a dedicated and hardworking employee. He earned a business degree from the University of New Mexico in 1975. While at Mountain Bell, he met the love of his life, Gloria Romero, and the two were married in Las Vegas, Nevada, on May 12, 1979. Their 46 years together were filled with devotion, laughter, and countless adventures.

A man of many passions, William enjoyed fishing, camping, poker games with family, and horse racing. He especially looked forward to hosting his annual Super Bowl Party, a tradition that brought together family and friends. His love for New Mexican music especially the sounds of Roberto Griego, Al Hurricane, and the Sparx was a joy he carried throughout his life.

William also found happiness in simple traditions. He and Gloria often walked the North Valley ditches with their many beloved dogs, his pockets always filled with biscuits that made him a favorite among the neighborhood pets. Every Easter, he faithfully joined the Penitentes on their pilgrimage to Chimayo or climbed Tome Hill, honoring his deep faith and heritage.

Family and friends fondly remember William's endearing malapropisms, such as his famous phrase, "be honestly with me," in place of "be honest with me." These little quirks, along with his humor, insight, and generous spirit, left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him.

William was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Johnny and Pete; and sisters, Judy and Barbara.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Gloria; sisters, Mary Ann Gonzales, Joann (Jimmy) Triviso, Diane (Joe) Martinez, Roseann Valdez, Susanne (Michael) Garcia, and Patsy (Dave) Ortiz; along with 23 nephews and nieces, 44 grand-nephews and nieces, and 9 great-grand-nephews and nieces. He loved each of them dearly and was always ready to lend a helping hand, no matter the need.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate medical professionals of San Luis Valley Health Conejos County Hospital, the Lifeline Helicopter Transport team, and Penrose Hospital, whose care and dedication allowed William to spend his final days peacefully surrounded by those he loved.

Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, September 11, 2025, 10:00 a.m. at St. Therese Catholic Church, 3424 4th St NW, Albuquerque, New Mexico. Immediately following, family and friends are invited to a luncheon and Celebration of Life at the Albuquerque Country Club, 601 Laguna Blvd SW, Albuquerque, New Mexico.

William and Gloria supported the Pulmonary Hypertension Association, by participating in the annual "PH in the Park" fundraiser in honor of his grandniece, Luciana. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Pulmonary Hypertension Association at:

https://phassociation.donordrive.com/phinthepark.

William's life was filled with love, laughter, family, and faith. His memory will remain a blessing to all who had the honor of knowing him.