Della Emilia Svejcara

Della Emilia Svejcara, 87, of Farmington, New Mexico, passed away peacefully on September 25, 2025, surrounded by her family.

Born in 1938 in Pagosa Springs, Colorado, Della grew up in a large family where she learned early the values of faith, family, and hard work. Though small in stature, she carried a strong spirit that guided her loved ones through life's joys and challenges. Her faith, kindness, and devotion made her a steady presence to all who knew her.

She is survived by her children, Don Sanchez, Walter Sanchez (Maggie Martinez), Ruth Briscoe (Brian Briscoe), Benny Sanchez, and her sisters, Alice Villarreal-Francis and Madeline Martinez; as well as numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and many dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Michael Svejcara; her daughter, Michelle Barrington; her son, Pete Sanchez (Helen Sandoval); and her parents, Juan and Emilia Villarreal.

Della was happiest when surrounded by family. Her strong little hands told the story of her love-cooking, caring, and serving others. She was known for her homemade tortillas and tamales and loved cooking meals for her friends and family. She also loved music and dancing, filling every gathering with warmth, laughter, and life.

Above all, Della was the heart of her family-their matriarch. She guided them with faith, strength, and love, and her influence will continue to shape their lives. Though her presence will be deeply missed, her spirit endures in the people she loved.

Services

A Rosary will be recited on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at 9:30 a.m., followed by a Memorial Mass at 10:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Farmington, NM. Burial will take place immediately after the Mass at Greenlawn Cemetery, with a reception to follow at Sacred Heart.

Memorial Contributions

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to the VFW Foundation. The VFW was a community close to the family's heart, as Della's late husband, Michael, was a proud member and veteran who found friendship, support, and purpose through the post.