Estevan "Steve" Archuleta Jr.

May 27, 1932 - September 14, 2026

Estevan "Steve" Archuleta Jr., a devout servant of God, a proud patriot, and a deeply devoted family man, entered into eternal rest on Monday, September 14, surrounded by the love of his family and the grace of his Catholic faith. Born in Mora, New Mexico, on May 27, 1932, to Estevan and Francis (Valdez) Archuleta, Steve lived a life defined by loyalty, joy, and an unwavering belief in the Lord.

At the start of World War II, Steve's family moved to San Francisco. As a boy, he sold newspapers for a nickel at Market and Montgomery streets and watched GIs return from the South Pacific. Inspired by their courage and a deep sense of duty, he later volunteered for the U.S. Army and served bravely on the front lines with a cavalry unit during the Korean War.

Upon returning home, Steve built a successful career in California and Washington as a maître d' at high-end restaurants and country clubs. Blessed with a charming personality, he crossed paths with many Hollywood celebrities, sharing these delightful stories with a smile even into his final days. Yet, his greatest adventure began when he learned that his childhood sweetheart, Stella Ashe, was still single. Trusting in God's providence, he "high-tailed" it back to New Mexico to court her. They were joined in Holy Matrimony and shared 49 beautiful years of marriage, rooted in faith, before her passing in 2023.

Steve was a man of great work ethic, deep prayer, and entrepreneurial spirit, later opening both a restaurant and a daycare center alongside Stella. In retirement, they spent a lot of time in Mora, NM tending to their cows and visiting family. He carried a lifelong devotion to St. Joseph, the patron of workers and families, modeling his own life after the saint's quiet strength, diligence, and protection over his household. He also held a tender devotion to St. Anne, the grandmother of Jesus, holding family and legacy close to his heart.

Steve was loved by all who knew him and genuinely enjoyed talking and spending time with neighbors and friends. Family was equally important to him; he called as often as he could and always welcomed visitors. His easygoing nature, tremendous sense of humor, and deep Christian compassion reflected Christ's love to everyone he met.

Steve's legacy of love lives on through his beautiful daughters, Stephanie (Andrew) Collins and Sharon (Art) Brito; his five cherished grandchildren, Joseph, Luke, Miles, Evan, and Annalise; and his loving sister, Maryanne. He enters into his eternal reward, being preceded in death by his beloved wife, Stella; his parents, Estevan and Francis; his brother, Gerald; and his sister, Lorraine (Barela).

Pallbearers: Miles Collins, Evan Collins, Joseph Brito, Art Brito, Luke Brito, and Greg Martinez

Funeral Services

Family and friends are invited to pray for the repose of Steve's soul and celebrate his homecoming to the Lord on Thursday, September 24, at Our Lady of the Annunciation Catholic Church in Albuquerque, NM:

8:00 AM: Rosary

8:30 AM: Mass of Christian Burial (reception immediately following)

2:00 PM: Graveside Burial in his birthplace of Mora, NM, Santo de Atoche Cemetary

Let perpetual light shine upon him and may his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Saint Joseph and Saint Anne, pray for him.