Willie Vigil

Willie Vigil, 65, passed away on July 18, 2025, after a battle with cancer. He left this world surrounded by love, leaving behind a legacy of grit, strength, and heart that will never be forgotten.

Born on May 21, 1960, in Denver CO. Willie lived life on his own terms, with a spirit as wild and fearless as the bulls he once rode. A true cowboy at heart, he found his calling in the rodeo arena, where he spent years as a dedicated professional bull rider, bronc rider - always chasing the next ride, always getting back up.

When he wasn’t in the ring, you could find him around a pool table, cue stick in hand, eyes sharp, smile ready. He was a fierce competitor and Champion pool player and a generous teacher, always ready to share a trick shot or a word of encouragement.

To those who knew him, he was more than his toughness. He was a father, a grandpa and great grandpa, a friend, a man who fought cancer with the same determination he brought to every challenge in life. He taught us to never give up - not on a ride, not in a game, and certainly not in the face of something hard. Willie was very proud of his grandkids for following in his footsteps in the rodeo world.

Willie is preceded in death by his parents William Louie Vigil and Marie Armijo-Vigil, Sister Louella Carmen Vigil and brother Ricky McCoy. He is survived by his children, Marcella Flores (Alfredo) CA, Reina (Michael Paul) CA, SueAnn Vigil (Robert) Taos NM, Wyatt Cozzolino CA, Abbigale Evans ID. Grandchildren Alfredo Jr. Flores, Debrianna Flores, Selassie Flores, Mekayla Vigil, Alexis Rosales, Eastin Rosales and Kali’lssa Flores.; Step-mom Linda Vigil; Sister Debra Ortega (Leroy) CA, Bobby Vigil NM, Frank Meyer (Tina) IA, Luella Casanova FL, and 5 great grandchildren. Special Thanks to his cousins Marja Vigil and Mari Teter for being there helping ease his pain. Countless family, friends, caretakers and fellow riders who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday August 7, 2025 at 11am, in the Evergreen Chapel of DeVargas Funeral Home of Taos.

The family of Willie Vigil has entrusted the care of their loved one to the caring staff of DeVargas Funeral Home of Taos.

Ride high, Dad. We’ll see you on the next trail.