Oclides Gonzales

Oclides P. Gonzales, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, was born to Juan and Carolina Martinez on July 11, 1937, and peacefully passed away on December 19, 2025. The eldest of nine children, Oclides learned the power of faith, family, and friendship at an early age. These values became the foundation of her life and the gifts she carried into every relationship she touched.

Okie, as she was lovingly known, was a devout, lifelong Catholic and woman of deep faith whose unconditional love anchored her family. Her sons and their families were her greatest pride, and she cared for all who were fortunate enough to know and love her with the selflessness that defined her spirit.

Blessed with quick wit and an extraordinary memory, Okie could recount wonderful stories “de mas antes,” bringing the past to life with humor and detail. She loved her puzzle books, photo albums, family gatherings and the occasional drive “down south” to visit the “maquinitas”. More than anything, Okie loved being surrounded by her family. Their presence was her joy and her love for them was unwavering. Her legacy lives on in the stories she shared, the memories she preserved and the deep affection she gave so freely.

Oclides P. Gonzales was preceded in death by her parents, parents in law, Ignacio and Eloisa Gonzales, brother in law Joe Gonzales (Delma ✝️), beloved brother Ben Martinez, sister and brother in law Dorothy and Ruben Canche, brothers in law Fred Gonzales and Bobby Vigil, sister Loretta Suazo and brother Mario Martinez (Mable ✝️). Nieces and nephews Cindy Martinez, Jerome Quintana, PJ Valdez, Ivan Valerio Jr., Mario Martinez, Jr., Kayla Valerio, Ivy Valerio and Stephanie Francisco.

Oclides is survived by her husband of 71 years, Frank Gonzales, sons Dennis Gonzales (Betty), Herbert Gonzales, Elbert Gonzales (Margaret), Robert Gonzales (Victoria), and Tony Gonzales (Anne). Sisters Clorinda Gonzales, Florence Quintana (Deacon Jerry), Rose Martinez (Elias), Tillie Valdez (Pete), Yolanda Martinez, brothers in law Benito Gonzales, Pablo Gonzales (Isabel), and Joe Suazo. Sisters in law Christina Vigil and Berna Martinez. Okie was blessed with fourteen grandchildren, Cynthia, Stephanie, Leanna, Melissa (Jerry), Pancho (Maryanne), Heather (Joaquin), Angie (Augustine), Jose, Vanessa (Josh), Esperanza (Lairs), Alicia, Amanda (Cole), Rochelle and Micayla (Gabe) and eleven great grandchildren, numerous God children and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Oclides’ family extends their gratitude to Mountain Home Health Care and Okie’s wonderful, caring and compassionate hospice nurses.

Rosary will be recited on Tuesday, December 30, 2025 at 9:00am, followed by the Mass of Christian burial at 10:00am, held at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic church. Interment will follow at Taos Memorial Gardens. 

The family of Oclides Gonzales 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