Jose was born on January 3,1934 to Peligrina Martinez and Onesimo Tafoya in Llano, New Mexico. He passed away on April 5, 2025 at the age of 91.
Jose is survived by his wife Ruth Tafoya of 30 years; his children: Albert Tafoya (Terry), Geri Rodriquez (Robert), Teri Gonzales (Daniel), Peggy Tafoya, Michael Tafoya (Nancy); his brothers: Lorenzo Tafoya and Reynaldo Tafoya; and Candie Savedra whom was raised as his daughter; ex-wife: Orlinda Apodaca; 13 grandchildren; 37 great-grandchildren; five great great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Jose is preceded in death by his parents: Peligrina Martinez and Onesimo Tafoya; Brothers: Alfonso Tafoya; Sisters: Mable Medina, Gregoria Sanchez and Edna Marquez.
Jose worked and retired from Kerr McGee Uranium Mine. He loved to work in his garden, sit and play with his cats and go for rides with his wife to get his favorite drink from Starbucks. His favorite thing to do was to talk about the good old days and be surrounded by his family and friends. He will be greatly missed by all.
Services will be held on Friday May 2, 2025 at St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Church in Grants NM. Rosary will be at 9:30 am Mass at 10:00 am and burial to follow at Grants Memorial Park. A reception will be held at The Elks 805 Charles, Grants N.M.
Honorary pallbearers will be all of his grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great great-grandchildren.