Reymundo “Ray” Branch

October 5, 1937 – September 8, 2026

Reymundo “Ray” Branch was born October 5, 1937, in Cleveland, New Mexico. His mother was Ninfa Branch and his father was Frank Padilla. His early years were spent in Los Vallecitos above the Mora Valley, a place rich in land, history and culture. Life there taught resourcefulness, independence and an appreciation for what the land could provide. Ray carried those qualities with him throughout his life.

He later moved to Mora and attended St. Gertrude’s School, where he excelled at basketball. He went on to serve his country as a United States Marine. He was a Marine by service and, in many ways, by nature — strong, disciplined, resourceful and determined to take care of his family.

In 1956, Ray married Sophie Martinez in Denver, Colorado. Together they raised four children: Veronica (Sam Nunn), Kathlyn (Bobby Clark), Deborah, who preceded him in death, and Raymond Jr.

After leaving the Marines, Ray spent thirty-four years working for the Gates Rubber Company, part of a generation of Denver families who remember Gates not only for the work, but for traditions such as its unforgettable Christmas parties.

Retirement did not suit Ray for very long. He liked being busy and useful, so he went back to work part-time driving a school bus in Denver and Pueblo.

Ray was happiest outdoors. He hunted, fished, camped, hiked and explored, and he passed his respect for the land and nature on to his children. Family vacations meant national parks and the wide-open places of Colorado and the West. Hunting trips with family and friends became stories he enjoyed retelling long after his hunting days were over.

He was also a gardener. His carefully tended garden produced carrots, peas, squash, turnips and plenty more for the family table. He loved his dogs and the simple freedom of being outside.

Ray and Sophie eventually returned to northern New Mexico, spending their final twenty years together in Rociada and Las Vegas. They attended St. Gertrude’s Church in Mora and enjoyed drives through the mountains to Taos, Española and Santa Fe.

Ray was a father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. His family grew to include six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. He is also remembered by his Branch family brothers Morris, Alex and Ralph, and sisters Dolores, Clorinda, Mary and Angela; his Padilla family siblings Leonard, Elizabeth, Cecilia, Andy, Judy, Noyola and Sheila; Sophie’s brothers Phil Martinez (Carol) and Frank (Bonnie Shuster), and sisters Barbara (Mike Coffman) and Teri (Dave Swenson); along with many nieces, nephews and friends who became family.

His was a long life — one built through work, service, family, curiosity and a determination to keep moving. He had much to be proud of.

To our family, and to the friends who are family, thank you for celebrating Dad’s life with us.

He lived his life always looking for his catch of the day — every day.

Rest easy, Dad. You are loved, and you will be missed every day.

Thank you for your service.

Arrangements are entrusted to and under the care of Rogers Mortuary 505-425-3511 or 1-800-479-3511.