Martha Driggers

In loving memory of Martha Driggers, age 95, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, niece, and friend who passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 19, 2025.

Martha was born on November 13, 1929, in Monte Vista, CO. She grew up working hard, even as a kid-she would play and work in the potato fields. During the offseason, her family lived in Dixon NM before eventually settling in Albuquerque. She graduated from Albuquerque High and Charles of Manhattan Beauty School. In 1947 she met and married Manuel Chavez from Alamogordo, NM and together they raised 10 children with love, faith, and a lot of teamwork. She always said that our dad left her as a millionaire, and she meant it. Not in money but in love, family, and memories and that was the kind of rich life they built.

Martha wore many hats over the years - she was a hairdresser, a cake decorator, a talented seamstress, but her proudest achievement was as an educator at The Peanut Butter and Jelly Pre-school. She poured her heart into everything she did and was known for her creativity, strong work ethic, and incredible resourcefulness. No matter what challenges came her way, she met them with faith, grace, and quiet strength. She deeply loved her family, and her life was a true testament to integrity, devotion and her unshakable faith in Saint Jude and our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Martha was a real mom in every way not just to us but to just about everyone in the family or in the neighborhood. She was always looking out for someone, she had a gift for making people feel at home, and she spent her life doing just that - taking care of others with love patience and a good sense of humor. Her treasures continue through her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Martha is survived by her children, Patricia Strabley, Marlene Nichols (Michael), (Rhonda Chavez), Loretta Gonzales (George), Manuel Chavez, Jr. (Yolanda), Ronald Chavez (Miae), Catherine Chavez and Dorothy Chavez; 16 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild; special nieces, Margaret Vigil and Denise Vigil; special uncle, Ted Trujillo and his children, many nephews, nieces, cousins, and dear friends that loved her so much. The family find solace in knowing she is now resting in the Lords arms.

Martha was preceded in death by her, father and mother, Silas and Manuelita Barela; her sons, Michael (Nellie), Lawrence and Donald Chavez; sister, Ethel Ortiz; brothers Eloy, Silas Jr, and Orlando Barela, and special aunt, Laura Candelaria

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the hospice staff for their compassionate and dignified care during her final days. They became part of our extended family, and their kindness brought comfort not only to her, but to all of us during a tough time.

A Rosary will be held on Thursday, June 26, 2025, beginning at 8:00 a.m., followed by a Mass at 9:00 a.m., at Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church, 9502 4th Street NW - Albuquerque. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery.

The Pallbearers will be David Armijo, Zachary Nichols, Michael Chavez, Ronald Chavez, Daniel Chavez, and Gabriel Luciani.