Theresa (Perez) Leyba

Theresa Leyba, 95, a life-long resident of Los Duranes entered the Kingdom of God on Friday, April 29, 2022. There, she joined her husband of over 70 years, David and her first child, Amado (Joey). She also rejoins her parents, Evaristo and Sara Perez; her uncle and aunt, Amado and Anita Garcia; siblings, Agrapina, Alejandra, Dorella, Gavina, Margaret, Mike, Pat, and Rosa; son-in-law, Pat Chavez; great-granddaughter, Noelle; and many dear friends who passed before her.

Theresa was a beautiful, modern, feisty and strong woman. She was a beloved fixture at Baca's Mexican Restaurant for over twenty-five years; a job she thoroughly loved as it allowed her to meet and talk to people from many walks of life. Theresa was deeply spiritual and attended services at the Mission of San Jose de los Duranes her entire life. She and David were caretakers/mayordomos of the Mission for several years. She continued to donate flowers for the altar until shortly before her death. As such, in lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to the Mission for a flower fund to continue her tradition. Alternatively, she was also a regular contributor to the St. Jude Children's Hospital, should you wish to donate to this cause instead.

Theresa is survived by her children, Bernice, David, Sandra Chavez, Robert (Curt), and Greg (John); eight grandchildren; twenty-six great-grandchildren; and twelve great-great-grandchildren. Theresa also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Theresa passed peacefully, surrounded by family, in the home she and David built seventy-one years ago. She always appreciated the many visits from numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

A rosary and reception will be held at FRENCH-University on Thursday, May 12, 2022, at 6:00 p.m.. A visitation, followed by funeral mass will be at San Jose de Los Duranes Catholic Church, 2110 Los Luceros Rd. NW starting at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, May 13, 2022. Interment will be at Santa Fe National Cemetery on Thursday, May 19th at 11:30 AM

In lieu of flowers, please see above charity reference for donations.