Erlinda Gonzales

Erlinda S. Gonzales was born on September 14, 1946, to the late Eufelio M. and Adonelia Sanchez in Taos, NM. She was called home to eternal rest with Christ on August 21, 2025, at the age of 78.

She was preceded in death by the love of her life and beloved husband of 38 years, Isaac I. Gonzales; her father- and mother-in-law, Isaac and Carmen Gonzales; siblings Gilbert Sanchez, Lorraine Sanchez, Arthur Sanchez, and Christopher Sanchez; and brothers- and sisters-in-law Fernando Gonzales (Pauline), Emilio Gonzales (Gloria Mondragón), Jimmy Gonzales, George Thomas Gonzales, and infant sister Rafalita Gonzales; Grandchild Sofia Gonzales

She is survived by her children Mark Gonzales (Carmela), Andrew Gonzales (Angela), and Francine Gonzales; and her grandchildren Isaac Gonzales (Gabrielle), Matthew Gonzales, Jamison Gonzales, and her special love, Giana Gonzales. She was also blessed with one great-grandchild, Diego. Her brother, Eddie Sanchez (Cheryl); brothers- and sisters-in-law Martha Chacón (Celso) of Wyoming, Moises Mondragón, Lena Sanchez, and Teresita Mascareñas; along with countless n ephews, nieces, and extended relatives.

Erlinda’s infant childhood was spent in Arroyo Hondo, NM before moving to Taos and attending Central Catholic High School. Erlinda dedicated much of her life to public service. She served 20 years as a Town of Taos Planning and Zoning Commissioner and 12 years as a Town of Taos Councilor and Mayor Pro-Tem. She later worked and retired as the Community Relations Manager for the University of New Mexico–Taos. Erlinda earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from the Anderson School of Management and a Master of Public Administration from the University of New Mexico.

She loved her family and community deeply and believed that service to others was a calling greater than oneself. She was a devoted catholic, and a lifelong member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Taos, NM, Erlinda’s Catholic faith guided every part of her life and was a true reflection by the countless lives she touched.

The Gonzales family has entrusted the care of their beloved Erlinda to DeVargas Funeral Home in Taos. A Catholic celebration of life will be held at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Taos, beginning with a Rosary on September 5, 2025, at 6:00 p.m., followed by a Funeral Mass on September 6, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. with interment to follow at the Sierra Vista Cemetery.

Honorary pallbearers are Leonard Sanchez, David Sanchez, Adam Sanchez, Mikey Sanchez, Eddie Sanchez Jr., John Ibarra, and Anthony Baca.

In lieu of flowers a charitable donation trust has been established for the education of Giana Gonzales. Please make checks payable to: the Giana Gonzales Education Fund.

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