George Padilla, Sr.

George Padilla Sr. was born on August 22, 1931, in San Cristobal, NM, and passed away peacefully on May 13, 2026 in Raton, NM. George lived a life rooted in hard work, faith, family and tradition.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Terry Padilla; grandson, David Martinez Jr.; parents Basilio and Natividad Padilla; siblings Epumoseno Padilla, Dilio Padilla, Baldemar Padilla, Ben Padilla, Emma Barela, Della Martinez, Frutosa Trujillo; numerous brother and sister in laws, nieces and nephews.

George is lovingly survived by his children, Reena Garcia (Abe), Pam Anderson, George Padilla Jr., James Padilla; granddaughters, Sarah Garcia, Alysia Valencia (Daniel), Celeste Arellano. Great grandchildren Jed Valencia, Ezra Valencia, Jada Basinger, Amaya Basinger and Andrew Arellano; siblings Louie Padilla (Elaine), Emily Padilla (†Orlando), Elisa Casados (Hank) and Erminio Padilla.

He dedicated many years of service working at the Molycorp mine in Questa, where he earned the respect of coworkers and friends through his strong work ethic and quiet strength. He also proudly served as mayordomo for the acequias, caring deeply for the land, water, and traditions that meant so much to his community and heritage.

George found great joy in the simple blessings of life. He loved fishing in the Rio Grande, tending to his gardens, and spending time with family and friends. He was happiest surrounded by family, sharing stories, laughter, and the values he carried throughout his life. His kindness, wisdom, and steady presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He is now flying with angels and resting in the arms of Jesus. He is complete, whole, and full of heavenly life. A piece of our hearts is now in heaven with the promise that we will see him again. We will remember George, who is no longer with us, but who will live forever in our hearts and memory.

Serving as pallbearers are George Padilla Jr., Abe Garcia, Daryl Padilla, George Rael Jr., John Martinez Jr., Jimmy Gonzales.

Honorary pallbearers are Jed Valencia, Ezra Valencia, Daniel Valencia, Andrew Arellano, Gary Padilla, Nathan Padilla, Kenneth Padilla, George Rael Sr.

The family extends their gratitude to the Miners Long Term Care staff for their support and care.

Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at 10:00am at Living Word Ministries in Questa, burial will follow at the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery in Costilla, NM.

The family of George Padilla, Sr. 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