Benito "Benny" Gallegos age 73 of Albuquerque NM, formerly of Las Vegas NM passed away peacefully Thursday morning September 1, 2022. He did it his way with no warning, he just decided it was time to go. He inspired and changed many lives, and truly cared for everyone he encountered. He had a gift of making people he met feel special, whether it was by teasing, joking, teaching, or mentoring, or maybe by giving you the shirt off his back. He had a tough exterior and a heart of gold. He worked until the end and was an example of humility, resourcefulness, and love for his family. He is now in heaven having told St. Peter to get ready for him and to have the gates open.

Over his 43-year career in administration, coaching and teaching he touched many lives throughout New Mexico, in Taos, Grants, Cuba, Zuni, Tesuque, Belen, Santa Rosa, Springer, Albuquerque and Las Vegas. He was proud to say that he was the only person who was a principal at both Robertson High School and West Las Vegas High School.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Ann Marie Gallegos, daughters Stephanie Gallegos, Lorrie Gallegos, and husband Daniel Chavez. Sons Max Gallegos and Sara, and Benito Gallegos. Grandchildren, Estevan Bazan, Anna Lisa Gallegos, Savanna Gallegos, Emma Chavez, and Benjamin Gallegos. Brothers Tony Gallegos and wife Susie, and Jesse Gallegos. Sisters Jane Chavez and husband Frank, Joann Gallegos and husband Angelo, Becky Gallegos, Marylou Garcia, and husband Daniel. Brother-in-law Eli Madrid and sisters-in-law Paula Madrid and Sandra Madrid.

He is preceded in death by his parents Jose and Bernardina Gallegos and brother Johnny, father-in-law and mother-in-law, Max and Emma Madrid, brothers-in-law Max Madrid Jr. and Robert Madrid, sister-in-law Dr. Tomasita Chandler. He had many nieces, nephews, and God children. He connected with each one of them in his own special way. He also leaves behind many beloved cousins, aunts, and uncles. He left this earth with a smile, the same way he lived each day.

A funeral mass will take place at 9:00 AM Monday September 12th, 2022, at Immaculate Conception Church, 811 6th Street, Las Vegas NM 87701. A eulogy will take place immediately after mass. A private burial will follow at a later date.

Arrangements are entrusted to and under the care of Rogers Mortuary 600 Reynolds Ave Las Vegas, NM 87701 505-425-3511 or 1-800-479-3511.

Please visit our online website www.rogersmortuarynm.com to sign the online register book.