Jose D. Archuleta, known as Joe, was born in El Carmen, NM. The eldest of 9 children, Joe grew up in Oakland and graduated from St. Elizabeth High School.

Joe lived his life exactly the way he wanted, and he left it the same way - on his own terms and with the last word.

Joe was a road warrior through and through. He loved being on the road and drove semi-trucks much of his life. Joe served in the US Army as a helicopter mechanic in Vietnam during the war and later chose different careers, including police officer and uranium miner, always returning to trucking.

Even in his later years, Joe couldn't be slowed down. He could be found exerting his independence on his electric wheelchair, which he’d drive to dialysis, church, and even the Hillcrest a time or two. Joe was independent, tough, and constant.

To his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, and many of his nieces, and nephews, Joe was more than just family. He was their hero and made life feel bigger just by being in it. He was the man you could always count on. He enjoyed traveling, cooking, eating, and dancing the twist.

Joe lived a full life, fueled by a fierce love for family and a stubborn streak that commanded respect. He died a hero, a traveler, and a man who always did things HIS way.

He is preceded in death by his beloved son, Joseph Archuleta; his dear sister Julie Gallegos; his younger brother Vincent Archuleta; his parents, Elith and Ida Archuleta; father and mother-in-law Antonio and Sarah Abeyta; brothers-in-law Juan Abeyta and Gilbert Abeyta; and sister in-law Sinforosa Abeyta.

Joe is survived by his wife of 57 years, Bercy (Abeyta) Archuleta; his daughters Elizabeth Archuleta and Yolanda Cruz; his son-in-law William Cruz; his special adopted son and grandson Darnel Alirez(Jasmine); his grandchildren Davian Seidl (Leanne), Alexia Seidl, Alyssa Rodriguez (Justin), Darrel Cruz, Amber Cruz, Chris Casaus (PaulyEtte), and Derik Archuleta; his great-grandchildren Kirra, RJ , Liam, Aiden, Braylen, Amelia, J.D., Elijah, and Elikai; his brothers Alex Archuleta, John Archuleta (Irene), Leroy Archuleta (Joseph), James Archuleta (Michelle); his sisters Frances Archuleta (Gabe), and Theresa Mendibles (Eddie); brothers-in-law Steve Abeyta (Linda), Pablo Abeyta (Dorothy); sisters-in-law Marcella Vigil (Elmer), Flora Martinez (Leroy), Stella Goetsch (Kelly), Dolores Regalado (Mark); as well as numerous nieces, nephews, hijadas, and hijado who will carry his spirit, strength and love forward.

Rosary and Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, April 29, 2026 at 9am at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church in Las Vegas, NM with internment to follow in El Carmen, NM at El Carmen Cemetery with full military honors.

Arrangements are entrusted to and under the care of Rogers Mortuary, 600 Reynolds Avenue, Las Vegas, NM 87701. 505-425-3511.Please visit our online website www.rogersmortuarynm.com to sign the online register book.