Phillip Joe Gallegos

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Phillip Gallegos on June 20, 2026. He passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family, just one day before celebrating Father's Day, and 12 days before celebrating his 75th wedding anniversary with his childhood sweetheart and love of his life, Ida.

He was born on December 24, 1933 in Las Vegas, New Mexico, where he was raised and attended school.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Ida Gallegos, children, Steven Gallegos (Diane), Cathy Garcia (Ken), Irene Romero, grandchildren, Anthony Romero, Kelly Mercer, Michael Romero (Angelica) Jessica Reeves (Matthew), Daniel Garcia (Courtney), great-grandchildren, Dominic Romero, Xavier Gallegos, Lauren Mercer, Lorenzo Romero, Sienna Romero, Louie Garcia, Gianna Garcia, Jackson Reeves, Samuel Reeves, Noah Phillip Garcia, and his loving sister Loyola Luna (Boni).

He was preceded in death by his parents Ben and Antonia Gallegos, brothers Ben Jr., Gilbert and Andy Gallegos.

As a young man, Phillip found a love for the sport of boxing, which included him participating in a Golden Gloves competition and then went on to enjoy watching all the greats and recently MMA.

Phillip retired from the City of Albuquerque Water Resources Department. Following his retirement, he owned and operated a laundromat and upholstery shop. He was a talented and hardworking man who could fix almost anything, which included electrical, plumbing working on cars and construction which led to him building a 1500 square foot addition to his home to enclose his swimming pool.

An entrepreneur at heart, he also bought and sold real estate, that included his cherished cabin in Red River, New Mexico.

He loved traveling by motorhome and was able to visit all 50 states, then expanded his travels to Europe, Canada, and Mexico.

Phillip was active in his community and politics that included running for New Mexico State Senate as a Republican candidate in his district, served in the Army Ready Reserve, then 26 years as an Honor Guard member with American Legion Post 69 until his health forced him to retire. He also served as an usher for over 20 years at Risen Savior Catholic Church and coordinated and hosted Las Posadas and proudly reached the 4th degree in the Knights of Colombus. Most recently he enjoyed spending time with one arm bandits at the Casino.

Above all, Phillip treasured his family Nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, taking them places and creating memories that will be cherished forever.

A rosary on July 14th, 2026 at 10 a.m. will be held at Our Lady of Annunciation, 2621 Vermont St. NE, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87110, followed by a mass and reception. The spreading of ashes will take place at Sunset Memorial Park, 924 Menaul Blvd. NE, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87107 at 3 p.m.