It is with broken hearts that we announce Sam Lucero received his wings on August 30, 2026.

José Samuel Lucero was born in the Española Valley to his mother, Bertha Rivas, who gave him life. A couple of years later, he was welcomed into the loving home of Mateo and Bibianita, who gave him love. He will be greeted at the gates of heaven by all three parents. There, he will finally be at peace, knowing that the sacrifice, love, faith, and respect they taught him lived on through him — not through words, but through the way he lived.

Sam worked 35 years as a Teamster, driving and stage construction in the movie industry. During this time he gained lifelong friends and had many unique experiences.

Dad didn’t talk about values; he showed them. Every day, in quiet subtle ways, he demonstrated that sacrifice, love, faith, and respect are what truly matter in life. He was always at the kitchen table — offering advice, encouragement, and wisdom. Those long conversations, full of life lessons, are treasures we carry forever.

Although he was an only child, you would never have known it, so many people called him brother. He shared a special closeness with Rachel Tenorio, Eddie Abeyta, Ralph and Dickie Chavez, and Leo and Zenida Alirez, who always felt like aunts and uncles to us.

Above all, the most important person in Dad’s life was his wife, Chris, with whom he shared over 63 years of marriage. Together, they built a beautiful and loving family. He is survived by his wife Chris, his children Cynthia & Victor Leon and Melanie & Thomas Pino, Mathew & Erica Lucero, and Joseph Lucero.

Dad was blessed with a large and lively group of grandchildren: Andrew & Neva Leon, Michelle & Jacob Ulibarri, Isaac & Raquel Leon, Anthony Lucero, Michael Lucero, and Adrian & Nazan Leon.

His joy only grew with his great‑grandchildren: Joseph Lucero Jr., Moses Leon, Sofia Ulibarri, Mila Leon, and Paloma Leon.

He never missed a holiday, birthday, football game, or celebration. Their marriage was a model of commitment through good times and hard ones. Some of our fondest memories are hearing Mom and Dad laugh together in Spanish — their love language. Many may think of our mom as the strong one, but her strength came from Dad standing right beside her. Dad, you are — and always will be — the foundation of our family. When we meet again, we will give you a small Lucero hug and a warm smile, just like you taught us.