Elaine Trujillo

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we announce the unexpected passing of Elaine Trujillo, who departed this life on April 11, 2025, the day she turned 78. Elaine tragically lost her life as the result of a senseless vehicular incident. She was taken from us far too soon, and her absence leaves a deep void in the lives of those who loved her.

Born on April 11, 1947, in El Guache, NM, Elaine was the beloved daughter of Fred and Dolores “Lola” Valdez. Her father passed away when Elaine was only four and her mother became a first-generation college graduate, so she could provide for her children and extended family. Because of this, her Gramita Marina and her Tía Nina helped raised Elaine and her brothers in a manner that bridged traditional northern New Mexican life and the modern experiences her mother, Lola, shared with them as a schoolteacher. Elaine often spoke of her childhood with a wistful affection, calling it idyllic, despite its hardships. She carried a quiet longing for those gentler days, when life moved slowly and sweetly.

Throughout her life, Elaine pursued her passions with grace and dedication. Following in her mother’s footsteps, Elaine pursued a career in education after graduating from St. Joseph’s University in Albuquerque, NM in 1969. She went on to attain an M.S. in Science and Math Education at UNM in 1996. She built a meaningful career in education, where her talents and work ethic earned the respect of colleagues and the gratitude of those she served at Fairview Elementary School, Larragoite Elementary School, Pojoaque Intermediate School, and Ohkay Owingeh Day School. Over the course of more than 35 years in the classroom, Mrs. Trujillo nurtured countless young minds, many of whom went on to walk varied paths—as healers, builders, thinkers, and creators. Each one carried a trace of her wisdom, and in each, she saw the quiet bloom of a legacy she held with profound and joyful pride.

She shared both a profession and a deep sense of purpose with her husband, David Trujillo, who was also a teacher. Together, they crafted a home that overflowed with learning, curiosity, and profound encouragement—a world lovingly built for their children. Though Elaine worked full time, her heart was always at home. Her children were her greatest joy, the very center of her universe, and there was no limit to what she would do for them. She read to them, prayed with them, and met their needs not only with care, but with a sacred attentiveness. Through her, they were rooted in the traditions and warmth of El Guache and Taos, and they carry her spirit and devotion in all they do. Her love was steady, certain, and immense—a lifelong blessing her children will forever hold close.

After 42 years of marriage, David lost his battle to cancer and as a widow Elaine resolved to cherish his legacy by becoming even more devoted to family, friends, and community. She found joy in planning family celebrations, spending time visiting with her family and friends, and serving as an Acequia de Los Molinos commissioner for 8 years. She prided herself on being involved and helpful; she often shared these gifts by being active in the community by serving on conference boards, being active in organizations, and volunteering in educational endeavors. She took great pride in being a mother, grandmother, auntie, prima, and friend. Though she loved being home, she’d become quite the world traveler and cherished the memories made with her family and friends on those trips.

Elaine recently commented to her children that she was looking forward to spending time with them, their families, and extended family for Easter and an upcoming trip to San Francisco to see her grand-daughter, Soledad, in a musical. The family had plans to spend time together this summer. Elaine was enjoying becoming an elder and looked forward to spending many more years with all her loved ones.

Elaine was a strong believer in her faith and loved God with all her heart. She will always be remembered, loved and cherished by her children; Bernadette (Abraham), David (Gloriana), and Patricia (Henry) and her grandchildren Abraham Antonio, Analiese, and Soledad. Her love extended to all her nieces and nephews, who she loved as her own, as well as her many dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and brothers: Conrad, Freddy, Tony, Norman, and George Valdez.

A Rosary will be prayed on Monday, April 21, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at Sacred Heart Church, located at 908 West Calle Rosario, Española, NM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at 12:30 p.m., also at Sacred Heart Church. Interment will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery. All are invited to join in prayer and remembrance as we entrust Elaine to the eternal care of our Lord.

Flowers are welcome starting on Monday, April 21st; they can be sent to Rivera Funeral Home by noon. Or in lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the New Mexico Acequia Association or Tewa Women United in Elaine’s honor.

Though her presence will be deeply missed, the memory of Elaine’s life, love, and legacy will remain forever in our hearts.