Loretta Constance Almanzar, 83, of Las Vegas, New Mexico, passed away peacefully in her sleep on July 3, 2026.

Born on February 15, 1943, in Las Vegas, New Mexico, Loretta spent her entire life in the community she loved. She was known for her warm heart, infectious laughter, and the genuine kindness she showed to everyone she met.

As a young woman, Loretta’s sweet disposition, lovely personality, and friendly nature earned her the honor of being named Homecoming Queen. It was a reflection of the warmth, grace, and kindness that remained with her throughout her life.

Loretta was preceded in death by her parents, Joe Almanzar and Della Rose Tipton Almanzar.

She is lovingly survived by her two children, Guadalupe Felipe Tafoya Jr. and Denise Constance Tafoya; her cherished grandsons, Isaac Marcos Zamora and Esteban James Zamora; and her beloved granddaughters, Gabriella Andrea Frosco and Anasofia Adelina Jimenez. Her family was the greatest joy of her life, and she treasured every moment spent with them.

Loretta devoted many years of service to her community. She worked as the friendly receptionist at Luna Community College, where her welcoming smile and caring nature brightened the day of countless students, faculty, staff, and visitors. She also worked for the New Mexico Department of Labor before retiring after many years of dedicated service.

Those who knew Loretta will always remember her as fun-loving, sweet, and full of laughter. She enjoyed gathering with friends, sharing stories, and making everyone feel welcome. She had a special way of calling everyone “darling,” a simple expression that reflected her loving spirit. Whether you were family, a lifelong friend, or someone she had just met, chances are she greeted you with a smile and that familiar word. It made everyone feel loved.

Loretta was a devoted mother, a proud grandmother, and a loyal friend. Her generous heart, joyful spirit, and unwavering love for her family touched the lives of everyone who knew her. Although her passing leaves a tremendous void, the memories she created and the love she shared will remain in the hearts of those who loved her forever.

A Rosary will be prayed on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Church in Las Vegas, New Mexico, followed by the Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Ojitos Frios Cemetery.

To us she was Mom, Grandma, and friend. To everyone else, she was simply “Darling.” That is how she made every person she met feel—seen, welcomed, and loved.

The family wishes to thank everyone for their love, prayers, and support during this difficult time. Loretta’s legacy of kindness, laughter, and unconditional love will continue to live on in all who were blessed to know her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

“Rest in peace, Mom. We’ll miss your laughter, your stories, and hearing you call us ‘Darling.’ Until we meet again, we will carry your love in our hearts forever.”

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.