Ben Curfman, 87, of Albuquerque, passed away peacefully in his home on Tuesday, July 21, 2026. He was self-sufficient to the very end, continuing to live independently while attending church and participating his local chapter of The Gideons International.Ben was born on July 1, 1939, in Velarde, New Mexico, and grew up among the apple orchards of Bosque Farms. As an adult, he earned a master's degree in biology and dedicated his professional life to education. He taught at Los Lunas Public Schools and Hope Christian Academy, each for 20 years. While attending Baylor University, Ben met his first wife, Winona McClanihan. After moving to Albuquerque, they had three children: Cherie, Tim, and Kevin.Following a divorce, Ben married Penny Murphy in 1974. Penny had two children, Karen and Mamie, from a previous marriage. Together, they created a home for their blended family of seven in Albuquerque.In summers they would take road trips and go camping. These trips are among their children's favorite childhood memories. In later years, Ben and Penny continued traveling, often taking their granddaughter, Amanda, with them.

A devout Christian, Ben was deeply involved with The Gideons International throughout his adult life, serving in state leadership roles and attending international conventions with his family. His faith was reflected not only in his service, but also in his unwavering devotion as a husband, providing loving care for Penny during her nearly decade-long battle with dementia until her passing in 2023. He was also known for his steadfast support of the causes and charities he believed in.Ben is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 48 years, Penny Curfman; his father, Virgil Curfman; his mother, Marie Yeager; and, daughter, Cherie Loveless.

He is survived by his sons, Tim Curfman and husband Jim; and Kevin Curfman; and, step-daughters, Karen Terry and husband Marcus; and Mamie Morrow and husband Andy. Ben had seven grandchildren: Megan, Amanda, Macie Jane, Nora, Cooper, Dolan, and Brady, and three great-grandchildren: James, Barrett, and Hudson.

A visiation will be held on Thursday, August 13, 2026 - French Funerals Lomas Chapel at 6:00pm. A funeral service will be held on Friday, August 14, 2026 - X Factor Church at 9:00am with a graveside service to follow at Sunset Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that memorial donations be made to The Gideons International - P.O. Box 140800; Nashville, Tennessee 37214-0800. Phone: 615-564-5000