Sharon Benita Salaz

January 5, 1968 – February 4, 2026

Sharon Benita Salaz, born January 5, 1968, went home to be with the Lord on February 4, 2026.

Sharon grew up in Bernalillo, New Mexico, and was a proud graduate of Menaul High School. After high school, she attended beauty school with aspirations of continuing her education to become a mortician. As life unfolded, she discovered her true calling as a hairstylist — a profession that allowed her to connect with people, share laughter, and express her creativity.

Later in life, Sharon moved to her family’s hometown of Cuba, New Mexico, where she planted roots and never looked back. She became well known for her vibrant personality, unforgettable laugh, and her incredible talent as a cake baker and decorator. Whether through her styling chair or her beautifully crafted cakes, Sharon had a gift for making people feel special.

Sharon was preceded in death by her brother, Raul Santillanes; her paternal grandparents, Carlos and Euphelia Santillanes; and her maternal grandparents, Lupe and Clory Chavez.

Sharon is survived by her loving parents, Herman and Frances Santillanes; her honey, Mariano Salaz; her children, Janelle and Levi Casaus; Mariano Salaz Jr. and Analysia Romero; Zachary Salaz; Dyan Jordan (DJ) Chavez; and Justine and Danny Delgadillo; as well as her nine precious grandchildren: Evan Julian (EJ), Johnathan, Malakai, Ezekiel, Alaya, Ryan, Ayden, Jazlynn and Lydia; and countless other family members and friends who will cherish her memory.

Sharon had the best sense of humor and a quick wit, and she loved like no other. She had a way of filling a room with her presence and leaving a lasting impression on every heart she touched.

Though we grieve her absence, we find comfort in Christ’s promise of eternal life and trust that Sharon is now free of pain and rests in His peace. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

The Holy Rosary will be prayed on February 20, 2026 at 10:00 AM at The Immaculate Conception Church in Cuba, NM with the Funeral Mass to follow immediately after.

Those honored to serve as pallbearers are: Mariano Salaz Jr., Zachary Salaz, Ruben Aragon, Silvestre Hurtado, John Chavez, and Sam Santillanes.