Martha Casias

Martha Casias, originally from La Cueva, New Mexico (Mora County), passed away peacefully on January 3, 2026, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where she resided at the time of her death. In the days leading up to her passing, Martha was surrounded by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephew and A dear and devoted friend, Ida Vigil.

Martha was 87 years old, born on June 6, 1938, to Felipe and Eduvergin Vigil. She was preceded in death by her parents; her daughter, Shirley Casias; and her siblings: Benito Vigil (Estella), Rosa Estrada (Don), and Senida Medina (Alex).

She is survived by her children, Orlinda “Linda” Lucero (Chris), Louie Casias (Veronica), and Richard Casias (Cheri), all of Albuquerque, along with her stepdaughter, Angelica Breitenback (Allen) of Farmington, NM.

She was a devoted wife to her husband, Juan Casias, who preceded her in death on March 5, 2024. Together they shared a life filled with love and laughter. They loved to go dancing, and to spend time visiting with friends. Martha had many friends and enjoyed cooking, crocheting, and spending long hours talking on the phone. If you visited her home, you always left well-fed.

Martha was known for being feisty and strong-willed. She spoke her mind, but beneath that strength was a loving heart. Family meant everything to her, and she showed that love in ways both big and small.

Her daughter Linda held a special place in her heart. Martha loved her deeply and, in her own determined way, tried to protect her from anything that might cause harm.

She spoke of Louie with pride, always calling him “Mi Louie.” She loved sharing his accomplishments and appreciated all he did for her and for Juan. Louie often took her to the casino, but she didn’t like playing the penny machines, she always wanted to play the dollar machines while she was there.

Richard, her youngest, shared a close bond with his mother. Martha cared for him throughout his life; she was by his side during his battle with cancer. She and Juan attended his treatments offering love and support. Martha was a lifelong Catholic. Attending church was important to her, and many Sunday mornings, Richard picked her up and took her to Mass.

Martha’s heart was always open. From the very first day she met Angelica, she welcomed her into her home and her life without hesitation.

Martha’s love extended well beyond her children. She adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren; she took special joy in spending time with them. One of the many cherished memories of Martha will be seeing her standing at the counter, guiding little hands as they learned to make tortillas—passing down tradition, and love, one roll of dough at a time.

Martha Casias will be remembered for the way she lived—with faith, generosity, and love. Her legacy lives on in shared meals, family traditions, and the ways she cared for others. One of the last things she said before she passed away was “everyone is going to be ok, all of you will take care of each other and “LA CHINITA” (Gracielynne) will also be fine just be patient with her.” (LA CHINITA is her great-granddaughter who is just as feisty as her hair is curly. Much like her great grandma Casias)

She will be remembered whenever we gather, whenever we cook for one another, and whenever we open our hearts a little wider. And we trust that now, she rests in peace—reunited with Juan, wrapped in God’s love, and watching over her family with the same devotion she showed in life.