Jesse James Cordova

Jesse James Cordova, age 63 of Cundiyo passed away Friday evening, March 17, 2017 surrounded by family and friends. Jesse was born in Fairview, NM to Willie and Sabina Cordova. Jesse was preceded in death by his father, Willie Cordova, Paternal grandparents, Fred and Lina Cordova, Maternal grandparents, Juan, Patricia and Manuelita Vigil. Jesse is survived by his wife of 46 years, Susie Cordova, Mother, Sabina Cordova, Sister, Maria Cordova, son, Willie J. Cordova (Natassja), daughter, Eluvina (Leonard) Sanchez, grandchildren, Julian, David James and Felyse Cordova. Jesse graduated in 1971 from Grants High School to begin his lifelong journey of hard work, family, and faithful believer and follower of his Heavenly Father Jehovah. Jesse traveled many place as a young man working on ranches, herding sheep and raising livestock. An extremely hard working man, Jesse's strongest traits were his ability to work hard and grow his gardens. He began work as a guard for the NM State Penitentiary and went on to work for many years doing Labor work with companies such as Bradbury n Stamm, Davis n Associates, Johnson Controls, KSL, and many year member of Labor Union Local #16. Those who knew him well were very aware of his passion to sing as he worked. All His neighbors were always serenaded by Jesse’s random singing bouts. After retirement, he spent his days growing the most amazing gardens. His mornings were set aside for daily trips to the mountains to bring firewood for his home. Jesse raised his only two grandsons as his own. Jesse taught them how to work, respect and be men. Daily chores were given and expected to be done with no reminders. Jesse was also very proud of his granddaughter in all her abilities as an avid ball player. Jesse was extremely proud of all three of his grand kids and loved and adored them equally. Jesse’s savvy and quick thinking responses will never be forgotten. Quick witted, funny, loving, charming and happy are some ways to describe Jesse. Yet, the only words to truly describe him are “hard working”, Jesse always made sure all his life was in order so he never would leave Susie in a bind. Susie was his lifelong partner and best friend. Jesse was truly blessed as Susie cared for him in health and sickness to his very last day. Leaving Willie and Eluvina with the strong orders of being a man and woman to follow his lead in life of working hard, being respectful, honest and to live by their word. As Jesse would say, “Sin tu palabra no eres nadien o nada” meaning without your word you are nothing or nobody. Serving the family as pallbearers are Julian, DavidJames, Willie and Philly Cordova, Lloyd and Bobby Vigil. Honorary Pallbearers are Felyse, Eluvina, Leonard and Natassja. Public visitation will be held this Monday, March 20th from 5 PM till 9 o'clock in the evening with the Rosary being prayed at 7 PM at The Rivera Family Funeral Home Chapel, Espanola, NM. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, March 21st at 10AM, At Holy Family Church in Chimayo, NM. Burial will follow in Cundiyo, NM.