Maria Guadalupe "Lupe" Elena Gallegos

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mary Guadalupe "Lupe" Elena Gallegos, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, who passed away from leukemia on August 28, 2026, at the age of 79 in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Mary built a life centered on faith, family, and service. She was born in Magdalena, New Mexico, on October 26, 1946, to Miguel and Amelia Chavez. She graduated from St. Mary's Catholic High School in Albuquerque in 1964 and earned her B.A. in Education from the University of New Mexico in 1990.

Mary dedicated 22 years to teaching fourth grade elementary school students before retiring to care for her beloved granddaughters.

On August 14, 1965, Mary married the love of her life, Narciso Gallegos. Together they raised four children: Anthony Gallegos, Martin Gallegos, Marie Madrid, wife of Chris Madrid, and Cindy Molina, wife of Daniel Molina.

She is lovingly remembered by her seven grandchildren: William Gallegos; Nicole White and her husband, Matt White; Marissa Madrid and her fiancé, Patrick Triana; Cassandra Madrid and her partner, Juan Salcido; Gabriel Madrid; Danika Molina; and Deandra Molina. She was also blessed with five great-grandchildren: Maya White, Andrew Triana, Niko Triana, Adalilah Triana, and Bowdy Triana.

Mary is also survived by her sisters, Luz Romero and her husband, Jim, and Trini Romero and her husband, Randy; along with many extended family members and dear friends whose lives she touched through her kindness, faith, and devotion.

A Visitation will begin on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, 10:00 a.m., at Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 5415 Fortuna Road NW, with a Rosary to be recited at 10:15 a.m. A Funeral Mass will begin at 11:00 a.m., with Abbot Joel Garner presiding. Interment will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery at 12:30 p.m.