Dolores Mondragon

Dolores Mondragon 1938 – 2026 With heavy hearts and deep love, we announce the passing of Dolores Mondragon of Cañon, New Mexico.

Dolores peacefully departed this life surrounded by the love of her family, on May 30, 2026. She was a woman of tremendous strength, faith, resilience, and unconditional love. Throughout her 87 years, she devoted herself to her family, her community, and the countless people fortunate enough to know her. Her legacy of love, generosity, humor, and perseverance will continue through generations.

Dolores is preceded in death by her first husband, Roberto Barela; her second husband, Ernesto Mondragon; her beloved son, Patrick Barela; sons-in-law Mark Espinoza and Tony Romo; and granddaughter Demi Candelaria. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Vicente and Porfiria Vigil; her brothers, Eloy Vigil, Felix Vigil, Patricio Vigil, Luis Vigil; and her sisters, Adelaida Martinez, Manuelita Fernandez, and Tessie Chacon.

She is survived by her loving daughters, Roberta Barela, Diana Castro (Robert), and Pauline Espinoza (Brendan); her special nephew, Steve Mondragon; her cherished grandchildren, Joseph Romo (Dwayla), James Suazo (Jolynn), Brandon Suazo, and their father James Suazo Sr., Elijah Castro (Mya), Jaron Espinoza, Isiah Espinoza, Ryan Espinoza, Lucy Romo (Randy), and Mia Espinoza; great-grandchildren, Amelia, Joe and Mary Romo, her great great-grandchildren Jeremiah Castro, Andrew and Antonio Herrera; She also leaves behind her stepchildren, with whom she shared a special relationship Carmen Candelaria (Demis), Michael Mondragon (Annette), Raymond Mondragon and Diana Keating. She is further survived by her brother, Tim Vigil (Chiyoko), and her sister, Anna Martinez, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Dolores's greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was her family. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend whose kindness, wisdom, and unwavering support touched countless lives. She taught those around her the importance of family, faith, hard work, and always showing up for the people you love.

A Cañonera through and through, Dolores loved her hometown and the people in it. Her home was known as a place of warmth, comfort, laughter, and love. If you knew Dolores, you knew her welcome mat was not just for show. Her door was always open, and there was always room for one more person at her table.

She found joy in life's simple blessings. She loved spending time on her decks visiting with family and friends, sharing stories, hearing stories, and watching her grandchildren play. Some of her family's favorite memories were made sitting on one of her porches.

One of Dolores's most treasured gifts was her sense of humor. She had a special way of keeping everyone on their toes, often leaving family and friends wondering whether she was joking or completely serious. Her quick wit, playful spirit, and infectious laughter brought joy to every gathering and created memories that will be cherished forever.

Dolores was also known for the simple but unforgettable comforts she shared with those she loved. Her coffee was legendary, no one could ever make it taste quite like hers. There was something special about sitting in Dolores's kitchen, watching her cook, and knowing you would leave with a full stomach and a full heart, it was an old school energy that made even the simplest meal even more delicious.

Her kitchen was the heart of her home, where stories were shared, laughter echoed, and love was served with every meal, and there was always a sweet treat waiting for anyone who stopped by. And if there was one thing you could almost always find in her hand, it was an ice-cold Coca-Cola. Whether she was visiting with friends, sharing a meal, or simply enjoying the day, that cold Coke was one of her favorite simple pleasures.

Dolores was lovingly cared for by her three devoted daughters, who surrounded her with constant love, comfort, and support. She spent time in both Roswell and Albuquerque, where family made sure she was pampered, cared for, and never without company. Yet no matter how much she enjoyed those visits, Dolores always longed for home.

Cañon was where her heart belonged, and there was simply no place she would rather be. The familiar views, the neighbors she cherished, the memories she built, and the home she loved called her back time and again.

It was there, in the place she loved most, surrounded by family and the comfort of home, that Dolores was able to rest peacefully as she prepared for her journey to her eternal home. Her family finds peace in knowing that her final days were spent exactly where she wanted to be.

People like Dolores, Lola, momma, grandma, friend, come along only once in a blue moon. Her strength, generosity, humor, and unconditional love made her truly one of a kind. While her family feels an immeasurable loss, they are grateful for the blessing of having shared their lives with such an extraordinary woman.

Rosary will be recited on Friday, June 5, 2026 at 9:00am, Mass of Christian burial will follow at 10:00am, held at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic church. Burial will follow at Nuestra Señora de Dolores Cemetery in Cañon.

The family of Dolores Mondragon has entrusted the care of their loved one to the caring staff of DeVargas Funeral Home of Taos. www.devargastaos.com 1-866-657-4019