Santos Quintana

Santos Quintana, age 90, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at home in Albuquerque, New Mexico, on May 8, 2025.

He was born in the small mountain town of Manzano, New Mexico, to George and Ramona Quintana. After graduating from Mountaire High School, Santos proudly served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. Thanks to the GI Bill, he earned a Bachelor’s degree in History, graduating with honors from the College of Albuquerque.

Santos enjoyed a long career with the New Mexico Department of Corrections, where he served through many challenging years, including the 1980 Santa Fe prison riot. After retiring in 1987, he spent his time wood carving, drawing, fishing, and being a devoted grandfather.

He was a quiet and generous man who shared his wisdom freely and loved deep conversations about life, politics, history, and Mary Magdalene. Above all, he cherished his family and his fury sidekick, Indy.

Santos is survived by his wife of 60 years, Lilly Quintana (his anchor and true best friend), his children J George (Gina), Theresa (Sam), and J Frederic; grandchildren Adrian (Stephanie), Lindsey, and Christopher; and great-grandchildren Penelope and Oliver, and his sisters Eloisa Corona and Louise Mastrovito. He was also a Godfather to Karen, Audrey, Teddy and Roman, and shared a close bond with his nephew Chuck.

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Sarah, Delores, Martha, and Gilbert.

A memorial service will be held at a later date, with interment at Santa Fe National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to honor Santos’s memory by reading a good book, telling a great story, going fishing, or sharing a laugh in his name.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered with love and laughter.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the compassionate professionals at

Trujillo Family Funeral Home

"Our Family Serving Yours"