Nancy Candelaria

Our beloved Mother Nancy Candelaria, 81, passed away suddenly on April 17, 2023 while surrounded by her loving family. She was born on September 19, 1941, to Manuel and Margaret Lucero in Albuquerque, NM. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 12 years, Joe Candelaria; her brothers Andy and Jessie Lucero; her sisters Connie Baca and Donna Montoya (Johnny). Nancy is survived by her daughters Peggy Tafoya, Kathi Duran and Sandra De Marco (Steve); her eight grandchildren Cyndi Specht (Chris), Steven Pino, Briana Gurule, Sarah Gurule, Joey De Marco, Ryan De Marco, Devin De Marco and Deja Pino; her five great-grandchildren Gary Saiz III, SJ Pino, Felix Pino, Roman Specht and Ezra Specht; her sister Mary Ann Montano (Bobby); brother in law Carlos Baca and several nieces and nephews.

Having spent most of her life in Bernalillo, NM, Nancy was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She placed her faith and family above all. A devout Catholic, she had a spark about her that made everyone feel special and worthy of God’s love. She was full of life, loved music, dancing, spending time with her family, shopping and tending to her yard. There was always a joyous glow about her, an infectious laugh that commanded all around her to embrace life for its gifts rather than its misgivings. She truly lived life to its fullest, always full of energy, teaching those closest to her by example.    

Nancy began her career as a Bernalillo Public Schools Kindergarten classroom assistant at Roosevelt and Carroll Elementary. She later worked as a library assistant at Roosevelt before she retired. After retirement, she worked as a substitute teacher and her final work at the schools was at La Escuelita Early Childhood Center. In all of her years, she was loved by everyone she met. She was friendly and outgoing. She greeted parents and family members with a smile and conversation that always made everyone feel welcome. She had a positive attitude, friendly disposition and loved being around people. The children she worked with loved her and she loved them, especially when it came to dancing with them during musical programs. She touched the hearts of many in our Bernalillo community and her sense of humor and sincere love for people will be missed. Her last position was at the Martha Liebert Public Library in the Town of Bernalillo. Her love of children and their families continued to shine brightly at the library. Just like at the schools, patrons were drawn to her personality and genuine willingness to help. She was appreciated and loved.

Pallbearers will be Steven Pino, Joey De Marco, Ryan De Marco and Paul Gurule. Honorary Pallbearers are Gary Saiz III, Larry Baca, Brian Baca and Eric Montoya.