January 12, 1940 – April 15, 2026

Samuel Peña, a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, proud Navy veteran, and faithful servant of Jesus Christ, passed away peacefully on April 15, 2026, at the age of 86.

Sam was born on January 12, 1940, in Roswell, New Mexico, to Jose and Amanda Peña. He and his sister, Maria “Netta” Montoya, were raised in Roswell, which shaped his resilience, discipline, and strong work ethic. While he grew in stature and in the love of his family, Sam built deep and lasting friendships, remaining especially close to his sister, family, classmates, and community throughout his life.

Growing up in Roswell, Sam participated in sports, school activities, and part-time work. In response to the tough circumstances of his youth, he learned to box under the coaching of Willie Hall at a local club, competing as a boxer during middle school and high school. Sam loved spending time with friends, going to the movies, listening to music, and dancing. One of his closest lifelong friends was Charlie Barela, with whom Sam stayed in touch over the years.

After high school, Sam moved to Albuquerque to attend classes at the University of New Mexico. Soon after, he enlisted in the United States Navy in 1961, completing boot camp in San Diego, California. He was assigned to the USS Farragut (DLG-6), where he served until his honorable discharge in 1966. Sam achieved the rank of ETN3 and worked as a radar technician, maintaining critical radar equipment aboard ship. He proudly served during the Vietnam War and is honored as a war veteran. While aboard ship, Sam participated in the ship’s unofficial boxing club (“Smokers”), where he showcased his boxing skills, earning the respect of his fellow sailors for his toughness and fighting spirit.

Soon after his military service, he had a chance encounter at a bus stop in San Jose, California, where he met the love of his life. While picking up his aunt, Sam discovered that Graciela was seated next to his aunt on the bus trip into San Jose. His aunt quickly introduced them, and for Sam, it was love at first sight. He asked Graciela out immediately—and after their very first date, he asked her to marry him. Though Graciela was not immediately convinced, Sam’s sincerity and persistence won her heart. Three months later, they were married (December 1966) and began their life together in California.

Sam and Graciela later returned to New Mexico to be closer to family. Over more than 20 years, Sam built a respected career with companies including Four Phase, Modcomp, SysControl, Digital, Gulton Data Systems, and Philips Semiconductors. He served in roles such as field service technician, burn-in technician, research and development technician, and shift leader. Sam approached his work the same way he approached life—with a smile, diligence, and a steadfast can-do attitude.

Together, Sam and Graciela raised three sons—David (born 1968), Edward (born 1971), and Benjamin (born 1972)—who were the pride and joy of his life. Sam provided stability for his family and taught his boys the value of hard work through countless home projects, including planting grass, tending gardens and orchards, building a home, and completing daily chores. He was his sons’ biggest fan, rarely missing sporting events, even when it required rearranging work schedules or taking on extra hours.

When his sons grew up and had children of their own, Sam became a devoted and involved grandfather. He picked his grandchildren up from school, took them to practices, helped with projects, and remained their loudest supporter. Above all, Sam modeled a loving and devoted marriage. He consistently showed love, respect, and tenderness toward his wife, Graciela, often holding her hand until the very end.

Sam received his salvation in Jesus Christ in 1968 while living in California. From that pivotal moment on, he and his wife, Graciela, became devout Christians and raised their family on the principles and teachings of Christ. Over the years, Sam and Graciela faithfully sought a home church in Albuquerque, meeting in living rooms, hotel rooms, and small office spaces. Eventually, they settled at Word of LIfe Church with Pastor Jim Lloyd and his family, where they were tithing members for many years.

Later, they became members of Believers Center of Albuquerque under the leadership of Marshall Townsley, and most recently were members of Calvary Church, led by Pastor Skip Heitzig. Sam loved Jesus deeply. He read his Bible regularly, shared the gospel with many, and demonstrated Christ’s love through his actions toward family, friends, and the community. Jesus was the source of Sam’s strength and the central focus of his adult life, and he is now resting in the arms of his Savior.

Sam is survived by his beloved wife, Graciela V. Peña, and his sons and their families: Edward Peña (wife Jean Peña; sons Jay Clemena, Zachariah Peña, and Malachi Peña) and Benjamin Peña (son Joshua Peña and daughter Kayla Gmyer). He was preceded in death by his parents, Jose and Amanda Peña; cherished son, David Angel Peña; and, his sister, Maria Montoya.

A memorial service will be held May 15, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. at New City Church, 4700 San Mateo Blvd. NE, Albuquerque, NM. A reception will follow at Saint John XXIII Catholic Community Church, 4831 Tramway Ridge Dr. NE, Albuquerque, NM.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the caring and compassionate professionals at

Trujillo Family Funeral Home

"Our Family Serving Yours"