Leroy W. Romero

Leroy W. Romero of Chimayo, New Mexico, born on December 13, 1947, passed away on April 21, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Leroy was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Anita Romero; baby sisters, Corrina and Trini and baby brother, Jim. He was also preceded in death by several beloved family members, including his sister-in-law, Mary Ann Romero; his uncle, Roman Martinez, and cousins, Jerry and Rocky Martinez, along with many other cherished family members who went before him; father-in-law, Epifanio and Dolores Vigil; brother-in-law, Benito and sister-in-law, Vickie Moya; sister-in-law, Ursula and brother-in-law, Arturo Martinez, and brother-in-law Eppie Vigil.

He is survived by his brothers, Nick Romero and Anthony Romero (Melissa); sisters, Crissy Sandoval (Ben), Gloria Martinez (Mike), Marlene Montoya (Jerry), and Lorraine Rivera (Raymond) and sister-in-law, Eloida Martinez and their families.

Leroy was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Bertha Maria Romero, with whom he shared 59 beautiful years of marriage. Together, they built a life centered on love, faith, fun and family.

He was a proud and loving father to his three daughters: Beverly Romero (Lonnie Gallegos), Corrina Romero, and Feliz Garcia (Benito Garcia). His greatest joy was his family, especially his grandchildren: Catalina Oselio, Maximus Muniz, and twin granddaughters, Gabriella and Carolina Garcia, who brought so much love and light into his life.

Leroy proudly served in the United States Army, where he was deeply respected and loved by those he served alongside. When his first child was born just one day after Bertha arrived in Germany, his fellow soldiers came together to provide everything the family needed, reflecting the strong bonds he built through his service.

Leroy dedicated his life to education, serving as both a teacher and a principal at the Española Public Schools. He made a lasting impact on countless students and families, guiding, encouraging, and always believing in others. His work was more than a career; it was a calling rooted in love, care and purpose.

He will be remembered for his kind heart, his incredible sense of humor, and his gift for storytelling. Leroy always had a deep desire to help those in need. He looked for ways to support others, whether through his work, his presence, or simply by being someone people could rely on. He was always ready with a funny remark or an unforgettable story, and he loved sharing them with everyone he met. He had a beautiful way of sitting with others, listening, laughing, and making people feel seen, valued, and important. He truly will be missed by many.

Pallbearers will be Nick Romero, Roberto Romero, Casildo Romero, Anthony Romero, Benito Garcia, Lonnie Gallegos, Maximus Muniz, Patrick Martínez and Nelson Trujillo.

Honorary Pallbearers are Ben Sandoval, Mike Martínez, Jerry Montoya, Raymond Rivera, Ben Marcos Sandoval, Ruben Rivera, Nic Martínez, Robert Martinez and Gary Moya.

Leroy leaves behind a legacy of love, joy, and meaningful connection that will continue to live on through all who knew him.

A Rosary will be held on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 9:30 a.m., at St. Jude Thaddeus Catholic Church, 5712 Paradise Blvd. NW Albuquerque, NM 87114, followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:15 a.m. Interment will take place on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at 2:30 p.m., at the Santa Fe National Cemetery, Santa Fe, New Mexico.