Darlene Mcknight

Darlene Janet McKnight, 52, of Santa Fe, NM peacefully passed away on December 9, 2014 due to a lengthy illness surrounded by her loving family. She was loved by her parents, Olivia Montoya and Zoilo Montoya. Darlene was a loving daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She had a huge heart that made a lasting impression. Her love, generosity and compassion were immeasurable. She lit up a room when she walked in. People were captivated by her charm and beauty. Her laugh was truly contagious. Darlene attended Santa Fe High School. She went on to receive a license in Cosmetology and a degree in accounting and payroll. She retired from the State of New Mexico. Throughout the years she cared for multiple foster children and changed many lives. She was preceded in death by her biological father, Jimmy Estrada Jr., grandparents, Herman and Helen Martinez, and Connie Estrada. She is survived by her family: Olivia and Zoilo Montoya, Angelicque Chavez (Salvador), Ricky Montoya (Suzette Porter), Amanda Lucero, Christopher McKnight, Elisa McKnight, Yvonne Martinez (Pete), Jimmy Estrada (Martha), Carlos Montoya (Yvette), Anna Roybal (Fernando), Yvett Kline, Maria Swinford, Michael McKnight, Michael Lee McKnight, Braeanna McKnight, Nancy McKnight, Irene Martinez, Jean Priestman and many other family members and friends. A special thanks to Del Corazon Hospice. A Christian Burial service will be held at Saturday, December 13, 2014 at Gospel Life Community Church 2520 Camino Entrada, Santa Fe, NM where a visitation will begin at 10 a.m. followed by a service at 11 a.m. Burial will follow at Santa Fe Memorial Gardens and reception immediately preceding the burial at Blaze Christian Fellowship 6 Bisbee Ct. Santa Fe, NM. Pallbearers will be: Richard Montoya (Ricky), Salvador Chavez Jr., Michael McKnight, Robert Estrada, Fernando Roybal, Pete Martinez, Christopher McKnight, Ezekiel Montoya. Honorary Pallbearers will be: Jarred Chavez, Savaughna Chavez, Elijah Montoya, Ezra Lucero, Ezekiah Lucero, Elisa McKnight, Shaylene Porter.