Sandra "Sandy" Chavez

Sandra "Sandy" Chavez, 80, passed away peacefully on October 8, 2026, after a brief illness, surrounded by her loved ones. Born on August 11, 1946, Sandy grew up in Albuquerque's South Valley and treasured her roots there. Throughout her life, she was defined by her unwavering devotion to her family and her extraordinary musical gifts.

Sandy shared her heart with the world through music, expressing her immense talent on the requinto, guitar, piano, and keyboard. Her musical passion led her to direct her church choir, and she later formed a band that performed at local church fiestas and community events. Those close to her will always remember her vibrant performances, her love for animals—including dogs, birds, and most recently, cats—and how much she absolutely loved a windy day, finding unique comfort and freedom in them. She also cherished the simple joy of riding her bike with her husband, Ernie, through their neighborhood. Sandy gave generously to her community, dedicating 48 years to caring for children with special needs starting in 1978, teaching catechism, and leading her daughter's Camp Fire Girls troop. Her warmth, melody, and unconditional love leave a lasting legacy.

Sandy is survived by her beloved husband of 60 years, Ernest "Ernie" Chavez; her four children, Yvette Baca and her husband Paul, Ernest "Ernie" Chavez Jr., Randall "Randy" Chavez, and Matthew "Mattie" Chavez and his partner Gretchen; and her foster son, Chris Hamblin. She is also survived by her two cherished grandchildren, Paul Baca and his wife Emma, and Dominic Baca and his partner Zoe; her sister and best friend, Becky Chavez and her husband Lawrence; her brother, Leroy "Lee" Barboa and his wife Rose; her dear niece, Viola Garcia and her husband Alex; her special nieces and nephews, Molly Chavez and her wife Sabrina, Stephanie Sanchez and her wife Donna, Lawrence Chavez and his partner Corey, and Erica Holler and her husband Nathan; her cousin, Berla Gallegos and her husband Gilbert; her close friend, Lucille Arias; and many dear friends, numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Eusebio and Rose Barboa; her sister, Carla Lopez; her brothers, Eusebio "Jerry" Barboa Jr. and Stanley Barboa; and her foster son, Carl Naranjo.

Honorary pallbearers will be Paul Baca, Dominic Baca, Molly Chavez, Stephanie Sanchez, Lawrence Chavez, and Erica Holler.

Services will be held on Friday, October 23, 2026, at Riverside Funeral Home, located at 225 San Mateo Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87108. A Rosary will be recited at 10:00 AM, and a Celebration of Life will follow at 10:30 AM.