Joe Velasquez

Jose “Joe” Velasquez, 82, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 1, 2025. His passing came soon after the heartfelt and unexpected visit from his brothers and sisters while living with his daughter Corina, in Las Cruces, N.M. A quiet and deeply caring man, Joe spent his final moments surrounded by the love of family.

Joe was born 3/19/43 to Alfredo Peralta Velasquez and Manuelita Giron in Mountainair, NM. After the depression, he moved with his family to the Oasis Farm in Hagerman and in his later years, he would call Roswell home. There, he found the love of his life Esperanza Kamees. As a young man trying to provide for his family, he held numerous jobs: working at a local grocery store, typewriter repair shop, farm and ranch supply, manager at a local drug store and even a vacuum salesman. It was the sales pitch at the door of a perspective buyer that steered him into real estate. This customer liked his pitch so much she suggested he see her husband and explore the idea of selling homes. He visited, loved the idea and became a realtor and eventually the Owner/Broker of Action Realty.

Beyond his family, Joe was deeply committed to his community. He served on numerous boards and commissions a few included: CAP Board of Directors, Roswell Chamber of Commerce, Chaves County Zoning Commission, Chaves County ETZ Authority, Roswell Board of Realtors. Finally, his pride was obvious when he recalled his two terms as a Chaves County Commissioner. He often spoke of the wonderful people he had the honor of working with and the many popular public figures he was privileged to meet.

Those who knew him well remember his greetings. Typically he would greet you with a quirky or familiar “dad” joke. They were feel good greetings, always delivered with a great big smile and followed by a hug or handshake. Even in his last days his question was always: “Everybody happy? He found peace and joy in the beauty of nature finding beauty in even the smallest details. That love of nature led him to create handmade crosses using rocks, pinecones, anything natural. Each cross was unique and he took such joy in stating, “Not another one like it, its one of a kind!”

Joe faced many health challenges including 2 prior strokes in his later years. The most recent stroke, 2 years ago, left him paralyzed, unable to communicate, swallow or even recognize those closest to him. Doctors stated his time was short, but he always defied expectations. In time, he regained all those abilities and proved God had another plan. That plan gave him and his family the gift of time and a deeper appreciation of each other.

Joe will be forever remembered for the love he gave, the obstacles he overcame, the strength and integrity with which he lived and the way he made others feel - welcomed, seen, and loved.

Joe was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Esperanza Velasquez and precious son, Joe Fatima Velasquez. He is survived by his two daughters Corina Reynaud and husband Rick Reynaud and Lorina Lucas and husband Matt Lucas. His Grandchildren, Taylor and Hannah Reynaud, Anthony Samario, Donovan Lucas and great-grandchild Veliciana Samario. Also, surviving are sisters: Cruz Carrillo, Rosemary Lopez and Gloria Velasquez. Brothers Adan Velasquez and wife Helen, Fermin Velasquez, Alfred Velasquez, Ryc Velasquez and wife Diana.

Pallbearers will be Anthony Samario Jr., Matt Lucas, Rick Reynaud, Alfred Velasquez, Ryc Velasquez, and Homer Sarli,

Honorary Pallbearers will be Ralph Sigala, Rick Reynaud, Martha Romero, Cruz Carillo, Rosemary Lopez, Gloria Velasquez and Jeff & Renee Miller

Services through St. Peter’s Church, Monday, Oct.13, 2025

Viewing: 1:00 – 1:30 p.m.

Rosary: 1:30-2:00 p.m

Funeral Service begins at 2:00 p.m.

Reception will follow at the home of Ryc and Diana Velasquez, 3355 W. Bland St. Roswell NM

*Buriel will be on Tuesday Oct. 14, 2025

Procession will begin promptly at 9:00 a.m. from Ballard Funeral Home, 910 S. Main St

We will proceed to Southpark Cemetery, 3101 S. Main St. Roswell, NM