Erma Mae Pinto

Erma Mae Pinto, age 82, of Farmington, New Mexico, passed away peacefully on January 23, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on March 17, 1943, in Farmington, New Mexico, to Ernest Pinto and Bessie Charley Pinto. She was born to Dziltl'ahnii (Mountain Cove) and born for Tachii'nii (Red Running into water).

Erma was a loving mother, grandmother, and matriarch whose life was centered on caring for her family. As a single mother, she worked tirelessly in many roles throughout her life, always putting her children first. Her strength, resilience, and devotion shaped generations.

She found joy in creating with her hands and heart. Erma loved crafting and was skilled in sewing, silversmithing, beading, crocheting, and cooking, sharing her talents generously with family and friends. She also delighted in yard sales, flea markets, and thrifting, always finding beauty and purpose in the simple things.

In her younger years, Erma worked as a preschool teacher in Lukachukai, Arizona, and at the Totsoh Trading Post. As a young girl, she worked as a mother's helper in Farmington, learning early the value of responsibility and care. Later in life, she served her community as an interpreter for Performance Auto.

Throughout her life, Erma lived in many places, including Lukachukai, Arizona; Navajo, New Mexico; Thatcher, Arizona; Denver, Colorado; and finally Farmington, New Mexico, where she spent her later years surrounded by family.

She received her early education at Nenahnezad Boarding School, later attended Intermountain Indian School, and went to school for her GED in Phoenix, Arizona.

Erma is preceded in death by her husband, Ray Neal Sr.; her beloved daughter, Lourinda Rae Neal; her parents, Ernest Pinto and Bessie Charley Pinto; and her grandparents, Lewis Charley and Desbah Charley.

She leaves behind a legacy of love through her children: Cynthia Mae Neal Tsosie, LuCinda Mae Neal, Starla Rae Neal, Delora Rae Neal, Raelena Mae Neal, Rehaleah Rae Toledo, and Ray Neal Jr; along with 35 grandchildren, 56 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, all of whom she loved deeply.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 11:30 am, followed by a Funeral Service at 12:00 pm, at Farmington Funeral Home, located at 2111 W. Apache Street, Farmington, New Mexico. A Graveside service will follow at Kirtland Fruitland Cemetery.