Celina Sally Montano

Celina Sally Montano, a cherished heart of the Canjilon community, illuminated the lives of those around her from her birth on February 18, 1944, until her peaceful passing on November 4, 2025, surrounded by love. Born in Canjilon, New Mexico, Celina lived a life rich with vibrant experiences, passion, and an avocation for community and family.

An exceptional cook and baker, Celina’s culinary creations were celebrated far beyond her kitchen walls. From delectable sopapillas to dreamy prune pies, her baked goods became the stuff of local legend, sought after by many who visited the flea markets where she sold her cherished treats alongside her artwork. Her sales were not merely transactions but joyful interactions that brought her immense satisfaction.

Celina was a whirlwind of energy; her family often found themselves swept into her bustling schedule of projects, from gardening to large card games of ‘31’ with the whole family. She thrived in the company of her loved ones, keeping them engaged and entertained with her infectious enthusiasm for life. Her rich vegetable gardens and meticulously planted flower beds were akin to living tapestries; each bloom and harvest a testament to her nurturing spirit.

Celina’s personality was as radiant as the colors of her quilts; she was outgoing, strong, and fiercely independent. Whether participating in Bingo games at the community center or gathering her family for spirited card games, she was a lively participant in her surroundings. Sunday afternoons turned into lively gatherings, where laughter echoed and stories were spun, all under the watchful eyes of a woman who cherished her role as the matriarch.

In her quieter moments, Celina found solace in her faith, praying the Rosary each morning while listening to the radio, even as her health made attending church a challenge. This ritual was a thread connecting her to her beloved Canjilon Catholic Church and to God, fortifying her spirit throughout her life.

Beyond her impressive culinary skills, Celina was also an artist at heart. She reveled in quilting, weaving, and creating intricate beadwork that combined her artistic flair with meaningful family traditions. These crafts weren't just hobbies; they were expressions of love, each piece woven with dedication and care, embodying family stories and shared memories. Her children fondly remember their Scrabble and 31 card games with her, a battle of wits accompanied by aromatic comforts from her kitchen.

Celina was deeply proud of her accomplishments, particularly achieving her GED, a testament to her determination and resilience. However, her greatest pride resided in her family—the legacy she cultivated and nurtured through the years.

Celina is survived by her loving daughters, Theresa Montano (Brooks), Lola Lopez, Veronica Lopez (Clyde), Martha Montoya (Jacob), and her son, Jose P. Montano Jr. (Linda) Celina is survived by her cherished grandchildren, Estevan Maestas, Gerald Montano, Angel Lopez-Lunt, Joshua Lopez, Yvette Lopez, Clarissa Montano, Georgia Montano, Brian Montano Jr., Chelsey Montano, Alianna, Jerome, and Lexy Montoya, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and close friends. Her spirit lives on, stitched into the fabric of their hearts.

She will be dearly missed by her sister, Marcella Herrera, and the memories they shared will echo warmly through the halls of family gatherings. Celina’s legacy enriches the lives of those she left behind, her laughter resonating, her kindness remembered.

Preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jose Prudy Montano, their son, Brian Montano, her grandson, Patrick, grandson Baby Montano, as well as her dear granddaughter, April, her memory remains a guiding light to all who loved her. She now finds peace alongside her parents, Eufemia and Jose De La Luz Martinez, her brother Lorenzo Martinez, and her sisters, Julia, Flora, and Casilda.