Ernest A. Cortez

Ernest A. Cortez, age 76, was called home to be with the Lord on September 27, 2025.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Jose Laure and Bonifacia Cortez; his siblings, Eddie, Manuel, and Michael; his mother-in-law, Tranquilina Pacheco; his sisters-in-law, Aida (Richard) and Cindy Madrid; and especially his beloved dog, Precious, affectionately known as Nini.

He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Rose, as well as his children: Eric, Yvette (Paul), and Marcos. He was a proud grandfather to eight grandchildren: Carlos, Tami (Leon), Randy, Kimberly, Eddie, Angela (Matthew), Jose, and Matthew; and to four great-grandchildren: Micha, Jade, Anastacia, and Izabella. He is also survived by his siblings: Maida (Frank*), Amos (Esther), Margaret (Ruben*), Cleo (Bobby), and Florencio; his siblings-in-law, Pearl (Gilbert), Lorenza (Alex), Isabel (Johnny), Linda (Felix), Joseph (Yvette), and Bardo (Michele); and many more family and friends. In addition to his family, Ernest leaves behind his turkeys, chickens, cats, and goats, whom he lovingly cared for.

Ernest was one of a kind. He grew up in Taos, New Mexico, surrounded by a loving and faithful family. He enjoyed many outdoor activities, including fishing, camping, and gathering wood. His passion for working on old cars grew into his business, Ernest’s Paint and Body Shop, where he painted countless vehicles over the years. He also worked in construction with his brother-in-law, Bobby Duran, at Pueblo Fencing and General Contracting. Later, he began working at Walmart before eventually retiring and starting a small farm. Ernest loved his animals and cared for them devotedly, rising early and staying up late to ensure they were always fed and cared for.

There are countless things we will miss about Ernest. He had a gift for always making others laugh. He had a nickname for everyone he knew and loved. He loved to tell stories of growing up, often reminiscing about his mother’s cheese pie and potato chili. Ernest showed his love not so much in words, but through action. He was the kind of man who could always be counted on, showing up when you needed him most. One of his greatest treasures and deepest joys was his family. But above all, he was a firm believer in our Lord Jesus Christ. He faithfully read his scriptures every day and shared them with us all. Though our hearts ache in his absence, we take comfort in knowing he is now in God’s care and that His plan is greater than our own understanding. Ernest will forever be missed and never forgotten.

Funeral service will be held on Friday October 17, 2025 at 11am in the Evergreen Chapel of DeVargas Funeral Home of Taos, with burial to follow at the Dolores Cemetery in El Prado.

The family of Ernest A. Cortez 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