Raymond Otero

Raymond Joseph Otero, (75), loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, role model, superhero, and more, peacefully ascended to the Lord on October, 23, 2023, surrounded by his family at the home he and his wife purposefully and passionately created. He touched the lives of many and left a lasting legacy. Ray fought a courageous battle against cancer for more than 10 years, demonstrating immense strength and determination in the final months of his beautiful life. For him, his family made his fight worth it. Ray lived his life as full as he could, spending time with his family, working out at the gym, and savoring meals at his favorite restaurants.

Ray, a true warrior, is the strongest man many of us know. He embodied kindness, gentleness and a fierce spirit and soul. A man of God with a huge heart, integrity and a commitment to his word, he positively impacted countless lives. Whether through The Sporting Event, a gym he and his wife owned, helping someone secure a job, designing personalized workout programs, or merely just being an inspiration, Ray's influence was immeasurable. Through his fight, he was the sweetest and most grateful patient, but also tough and displayed his sense of humor. Ray is with us energetically everywhere and a part of us went with him and part of him will forever be with us. May he rest in peace but live and smile up above.

Ray earned his Bachelors of Arts in Recreation from the University of New Mexico in 1975. He dedicated 35 years of his life to the County of Bernalillo, retiring in 2000. His passion for sports and his desire to promote positivity and teamwork in youth and the broader community led him to a fulfilling career in parks and recreation. His contributions included coordinating sports tournaments and events, creating various classes for the community, coaching, refereeing, and more. Ray's favorite role was serving as the Bernalillo County Parks and Recreation Director for three years. He also held positions as deputy commissioner and deputy treasurer, along with a series of roles dedicated to running programs and community centers, such as community center supervisor, sports director, parks and recreation superintendent, assistant director, fitness coordinator, and more. Ray also proudly served in the Air Force and Air Force National Guard.

Ray was born in Albuquerque, NM, to Lorenzo Otero and Ida Carrillo Otero, on June 1, 1948. He is survived by his devoted wife Monica, and their two children, Tenille and Joseph, his daughter-in-love, Jeannette, and his three grandchildren Rozelynne, Jojo, and Brooklynne. Known as "Poppy" to his grandchildren, they provided him with daily hope and a reason to live. He is also survived by his four sisters (Felis, Lucille, Peggy, and Ann) and three brothers (Charles, Lawerence, and Lee). He is also survived by his sister-in law, Christine and her husband Earl, and his brother-in-law, Anthony and his wife Pancha. Ray is survived by an even bigger family that extends to in-laws, nephews, nieces, cousins and many many friends and loved ones.

A public visitation and an opportunity to speak in remembrance of Ray will be held on Thursday, Nov. 2 at French's Mortuary at 9300 Golf Course Rd. NW, 87114 at noon followed by a Rosary at 1 p.m. A mass, in honor of Ray will take place on Friday, Nov. 3 at 10 a.m. at St. Jude's Thaddeus church at 5712 Paradise Blvd., 87114 followed by the burial at Sunset Memorial Park at noon. Reception to follow.