James J. Montano

James J. Montano “Jimmy/Jimmy Joe”, loving husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on Monday, September 20, 2021 in Albuquerque, NM at the age of 87.

Jimmy is survived by his loving wife, Mary Frances Montano of Corrales, NM; daughter-in-law, Dora Montano (Albert) of Albuquerque, NM; daughters, Diana Sanchez (Al) of Albuquerque, NM and Dottie Tenorio (Richard) of Corrales, NM; sons, James “Jimbo” Montano (Shandra) of Greeley, Colorado and Carlos Montano (Genevieve) of Corrales, NM; brothers, Cecil Montano (Alice) of Texaco, NM and Benny Montano (Anna Mae) of Santa Fe, NM; sister-in-law, Flora Montano (Leroy) of Mesa, Arizona; grandchildren: Anita, Yolanda, Alicia, Michael, Marcus, Solea, Emilio, and Zach; great grandchildren: Nick, Jade, Gloria, Juliana, Skyler, Julian, and Bella, and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his son, Albert Montano, parents, Cesario Montano and Emilia Bonney, and brother, Leroy Montano.

Jimmy was born on September 7, 1934 in Santa Rosa, NM to Cesario Montano and Emilia Bonney. Jimmy was a US Marine veteran of 4 years, earning rank of Corporal. He served in the Korean Conflict, where he earned the Korean War Medal, National Defense War Medal, and United Nations Service Medal. Jimmy worked as a barber and later as an Alcohol/Substance Abuse Counselor. Jimmy married Mary Frances Vigil on July 30, 1955 in Tucumcari, NM. They celebrated 66 beautiful years of marriage.

Jimmy was a talented musician and composer. He loved playing his guitar for family and social gatherings. He was a generous and caring individual with a passion for life. Jimmy had a variety of hobbies: the outdoors, especially fishing and hunting, his LA Dodgers and watching every game, gardening and woodworking, and his beloved horses. He was an active and dedicated member of AA for over 50 years, Marriage Enrichment, Crusillo Movement, and San Ysidro Catholic Church in Corrales, and the Spanish Choir. Most of all Jimmy loved gathering with his family and friends. Jimmy will be deeply missed by those whose lives he touched.

A rosary will be recited on Thursday, October 14, 2021 at 7:00 pm at Daniels – Sara Chapel, 4310 Sara Rd. SE Rio Rancho, NM 87124. A private family funeral is planned.