Carmen Valdez

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On Dec. 29, 2017, Carmen Valdez, lifetime resident of Pagosa Springs, entered the gates of Heaven.

Carmen was born on April 28, 1942, in Edith Colo., to Ruben and Lupita Valdez; she was the second of seven children.

She attended Pagosa Springs High School and often said she graduated from the “University of Life.” For seven years, she worked at the sawmill and she was so proud when she became a certified lumber grader. She also worked at Jan’s Cafe, the Junction Restaurant, Diamond-J Convenient Store and she was a caregiver.

Carmen had friends from every walk of life — her door was open to all. There wasn’t a church she didn’t attend, a person she didn’t call friend. She greeting everyone with “honey” or “sweetheart.” She loved everyone and, no matter how ill she was feeling, Carmen always had a way of lifting everyone’s spirits. She was always there with a shoulder to cry on, an ear to listen and advice when asked. You could never leave her home without eating, having coffee and certainly not without a hug.

Carmen is preceded in death by parents Lupita and Ruben; godsons Roland Lee Sanchez and James Garcia; brother Anthony Valdez; niece Angelina Curvey; sister-in-law Jean Valdez; brother-in-law Ray Sanchez; her little poodle, Emmie-Lou; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

She is survived by daughter Renee and son Joey Cordova; her grandsons: Brock and Trenton; sister Lupe Sanchez; brother Mencor Valdez (and Janet); sister Tessie Curvey (and Bob); sister Virginia Maes; baby sister Ruby (and Phil); Tia Clara; Aunt Jenny and Tio Celestinio Martinez; Aunt Rachael Griego; along with numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and 17 godchildren.

Rosary was said on Wednesday, Jan. 3, at 6 p.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary and Mass of Christian Burial will be held today, Thursday, Jan. 4, at 10 a.m. at Pope John Paul II, with burial to follow at Hilltop Cemetery.