Leona Talachy

Leona Rabanal Talachy (80), beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt, friend, and dedicated school counselor, passed away peacefully on October 10, 2025, in Española, New Mexico. She was born on March 27, 1945, in Toppenish, Washington, to Felix and Edna Randal Rabanal.

Leona graduated from Wapato High School in Washington and later attended the College of Santa Fe, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in psychology. Her lifelong passion for education led her to pursue a Master’s degree in Guidance Counseling from New Mexico Highlands University in Las Vegas, New Mexico.

While completing her undergraduate degree, Leona worked as a teacher’s aide at Espanola Public Schools. After earning her graduate degree, she served as a guidance counselor for Española Public Schools, where she was admired for her compassion, wisdom, and dedication to helping students realize their potential.

Leona’s impact extended well beyond the counseling office. She was deeply involved in supporting youth and promoting healthy activities—coaching Little League baseball, softball, school volleyball, school track and field, and cross-country teams. Her encouragement inspired countless young people to challenge themselves, work hard, and believe in their abilities.

In 1964, Leona married Faustin “Louie” Talachy, and together they built a loving family and a life grounded in faith, laughter, and community.

Leona was known for her creativity, warmth, and zest for life. She was a talented cook, famous for her delicious chop suey, a family favorite that brought loved ones together around her table. To Leona, cooking was an act of love. She also enjoyed sewing and beadwork, creating intricate and beautiful pieces that showcased her artistic touch and patience.

Her adventurous spirit shone through her love of visiting casinos, always embracing the excitement of the moment and sharing laughter with those around her.

Leona’s life was a tapestry of love, generosity, and devotion. Her legacy continues through the countless lives she touched with her kindness, humor, and steadfast care.

Leona is survived by her son, Stacey Talachy, and daughter, Monica Montoya (Nicodemus); grandsons Jovan Spencer, Mekelis Talachy, and Kordero Talachy; granddaughters Taneshia and Karen Talachy; her brother, Larry Rabanal (Jill) and her sister, Mary Lou Owen (Jack), and great grandchildren Aiden, Kika, Cyrus, Kailea, River, and DJ.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Faustin “Louie” Talachy; her son, Adam Talachy; her parents, Felix and Edna Rabanal; her brothers, Lloyd and Leonard Rabanal; and her sister, Glenora Rabanal.

Leona’s family and friends will forever remember her strength, joy, and the warmth she brought to every life she touched.

A Service with Viewing will be held on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at 6:00pm - 7:00pm at Rivera Funeral Home in Espanola. A rosary will be held at Sacred Heart Parish in Espanola at 9:30am followed by a funeral Mass at 10:30am on Thursday, October 16, 2025.