Celia Valencia

Celia Valencia, beloved Mother and Grandmother peacefully passed away on Tuesday, August 6, 2024 in Albuquerque, NM. Celia was born at home on January 16, 1934 near Logan, NM to Gabriel Chacon and Jacobita (Mary) Vigil. 

She is preceded in death by her husband, Joe Valencia, daughter, Cindy Sain (Stephen), and stepson, Ron Valencia (Rosa). She is survived by her son, Frank Valencia (Lisa and sons, Eddy, Austin, Dominic), her daughter, Peggy Valencia Megginson (Richard), grandsons: Logan Valencia Megginson, Torrin Valencia Megginson, Nicholas Sain, Ron’s children, and many special nieces and nephews. 

After graduating from high school, Celia acquired secretarial skills that landed her a job in Santa Fe for the NM Highway Department. On her way to and from work she caught the eye of her future husband of 60 years. 

Celia and Joe married and moved to Albuquerque where he was a salesman and she a happy homemaker. They had three children, and she loved being a mother. She was an excellent cook, seamstress, girl scout leader, homeroom mother, party hostess, sport/band fan. Whatever support her children needed, she was reliably and enthusiastically present. 

As her children grew, Celia returned to the work world. In 1981, she began her LOBO career as an administrative assistant in UNM’s Athletics Department. Soon, she became the AA to the Head Football Coach. For over 25 plus years, she tenured under many coaches: Joe Morrison, Joe Lee Dunn, Mike Sheppard, Dennis Franchione, and her favorite: Rocky Long. Each coach, their staff, work studies and the players were special and became like family to her. She was well liked, respected and has fond memories of players like: Brian Urlacher, Terance Mathis, Katie Hnida, Glover Quin, and many others. In 2009, Celia retired but remained a loyal LOBO. She was granted an Honorary Letter and membership to the UNM Letterman’s Club for her dedicated years of service. 

Celia was always a proud, doting grandmother. She was a great influence in their lives, and they adored her. After retirement, she had more free time to spend on her grandsons’ activities. She also kept busy with her Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, and discovered she had an untapped talent for watercolors! 

Celia was Constant of Faith, she loved God. She was forever praying for us all. Her fingers were nimble along the worn beads of her rosary. She blessed us every day, every night, for guidance, through sickness, health, stresses, and good fortune. Her blessings made us feel that our souls were protected. She showed us selflessness and the power of faith.

A note of thanks to her special friend, Sally and special caregivers: Anna, Sandra, Brianna, her Ambercare Hospice Team, and Brio AL caregivers. She was grateful for your friendships and caregiving. 

Generous of Heart, she loved and blessed us all. Our hearts are heavy, for we return that love and will miss her deeply. 

Services in Albuquerque: Prince of Peace Catholic Church: Friday September 27, 2024- Rosary: 10:30am, Funeral Mass: 11am. Reception to follow. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating "in honor of Celia Valencia” to the LOBO football program via the Lobo Club: 505-925-2582