James Anthony Quintana

It is with great sadness that the family of James Anthony Quintana announce his sudden passing at his home in Los Luceros, New Mexico, on Saturday, January 2, 2021. James was born on November 17, 1964, to Leo and Loyola Quintana. James was a 1982 graduate of Espanola Valley High School. He went on to study at the University of New Mexico and later received his Electronics Associate degree from Northern Community College. He was employed by the New Mexico Highway Department for most of his career. In his most recent years, he spent his time working the family farm tending to the apple orchard, crops, and livestock. He also made caring for his dad a priority. He enjoyed the great outdoors where he spent many of his days fishing, hunting, and camping. Through thick and thin, James was a devoted Miami Dolphins fan since a young age. He once attended a game in Denver where his team was playing and he braved a trip to the men's room alone, sporting a Dolphins jersey, this after being warned not to do so. After threats of bodily harm, he was safely escorted back to his seat by security. In addition to other attributes, he was also a very wise man for the next trip to the men's room, he turned his jersey inside out. James will be remembered most for his kindness, resilience, and quick wit. He was never one to be discouraged regardless of difficulties he encountered, and he never failed to bring a smile to those who knew him. He brought so much love and pride to his family and he will be deeply missed. His biggest pride was his children and he is remembered by them for the unconditional love he provided. May his soul be received by the Almighty and his essence remain in our hearts forever. James is survived by his father, Leo Quintana; daughter Santana Quintana, sons Christian, Jaylen, and Santiago Quintana; grandson Noah Martinez; sister Sandra Silva (Richard); brother Leonard Quintana (Beverly); nieces Kathryn Quintana (Travis), Dana Behnfield (Walter), Anndria Quintana (Igor) and Michayla Salazar; nephew Ryan Silva (Stephanie); great nephew Jay Silva; godparents, Joe and Connie Apodaca; godchildren Sammy and Gabriella Gallegos; and special cousin, Eddie Romero. James was blessed throughout his life to be much loved and cherished by many aunts, uncles, cousins and special friends, especially Frankie Martinez and Raymond Maestas. James was preceded in death by his mother, Loyola Quintana; sister, Mercedes (Marcie) Quintana; paternal grandparents; Merced and Petrita Quintana; and maternal grandparents, Max and Mercedes Martinez. A rosary will be recited on Thursday, January 28th at 11:30 am at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Ohkay Owingeh, with a Mass of Christian burial to follow (12:00 pm). A burial of cremation will be held at La Villita Cemetery.