Maria Antonietta Montoya

In loving memory of Maria A. Montoya, of Roswell, N.M. A woman whose heart knew no limits and whose love touched countless lives. Maria was born May 16, 1942, in Roswell, N.M., to Jose Miranda Pena and Amanda Pena.

Maria opened her home and her arms to children in need, raising not only her own, but also her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, great-great-great-grandchildren, and even the children of friends as if they were her own.

Her life will always be a reflection of compassion and unwavering faith. Her grace, patience and kindness were always on display by those who encountered her. As she cared selflessly for everyone around her, her actions and words were mirrored by all who loved her.

She is preceded in death by her cherished parents, Jose and Amanda Pena. Her one and only beloved brother Sammy Pena, just one day after her passing. Daughters, Elaine Montoya and Shiela Samario, sons Robert Medina and Jessie Joe Samario, and grandson Seferino Aldavaz Jr.

Her memory will be remembered by daughters; Melinda Pena, Peggy Montoya, Edie Montoya, Angie and Camilia Samario and Sonia Montoya. She is also leaving behind 33 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren and 15 great-great-grandchildren. Also, beloved companion Rudy Chairez.

Maria’s legacy lives on in the many lives she shaped, the values she instilled, and the love she gave so freely. She will be remembered always for her nurturing spirit, her faith, and the warmth she brought into every life she touched.

There will be a public viewing at Ballard Funeral Chapel, 910 S. Main St, Roswell, from 9:00 am till 4:00 pm, on Tuesday, April 28, 2026. On Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at St. John’s Catholic Church,506 S. Lincoln Ave., Roswell. A Rosary will be held at 9:30 am, and Mass at 10:00 am. Following Mass, Maria will be laid to rest at South Park Cemetery, 3101 S. Main St. Roswell. Following services at South Park Cemetery, a comida gathering for all family, friends and loved ones, at Westminster Presbyterian Church Auditorium, at 2801 W. 4th St. Roswell, NM.

Those honored to be Pallbearers are: Ernie R. Montoya, Angel Aldavaz, Raymond Sedillo, Daniel Martinez, Matt Martinez, Michael Martinez, Gilbert Dutchover and Andrew Aldaz.

Honorary Pallbearers are: Precilla Pena, Candi Morales, Angela Montoya, Rena Pena, Joanna Pena, Sierra Aldaz, Alyssa Giron, Sparkle Martinez, Marisela Pena Lucero, Miranda Montoya, Jaime Montoya, Alexis Dutchover, Claudia Gomez, Reanna Granado, Frank Sedillo, Raquel Montoya and Joshua Montoya.

She will be dearly missed and forever cherished.