Denise C. Castillo

Denise C. Castillo, a cherished member of the Vaughn community, passed away on October 31, 2025, at Presbyterian Hospital in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Born on August 6, 1974, in Ft. Sumner, NM, to the home of Mike and Susie (Garcia) Baca. Denise was raised in Vaughn and graduated from Vaughn High School in 1992. She crafted a remarkable career as the Assistant Business Manager for Vaughn Municipal Schools, where she was dedicated to facilitating the needs of students and staff, retiring in March of 2025.

Denise was united in marriage to her beloved husband, Lorenzo Castillo, Jr., on December 26, 1998, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Vaughn. Their marriage was a testament to their love for each other and commitment to family. Together, they celebrated the joys of life, particularly with their daughter, Courtney Castillo.

A devoted parishioner at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Denise embraced her faith and community with warmth and kindness. She found great joy in various pursuits, from watching sports—especially the Dallas Cowboys—to traveling and enjoying the music that accompanied her life. Her spirit thrived in simpler moments, whether cruising around town or sharing lunch with her mother, Susie Baca.

Denise's legacy is marked by the love and support of a wide network of family and friends. She is survived by her husband, Lorenzo Castillo, Jr. of Vaughn; daughter, Courtney Castillo of Vaughn; and mother, Susie Baca of Vaughn. She is also survived by her brothers, Edward (Tina) Baca of Vaughn and Michael (Michelle) Baca of Vaughn; and a host of in-laws including, Lorinda (Joaquin) Manuel of Holman, NM; Luis Castillo of Cleveland, NM, Lefonso (Faith) Castillo of Mora, Loretta (Gerald) Castillo of Vaughn, Uncles and Aunt; Richard Garcia of Albuquerque, Andy Garcia of San Diego, CA, Larry Garcia of Albuquerque, Benjie (Bertha) Baca of Vaughn, Helen (Gifford) Crowe of Tucumcari. Additionally, she leaves behind numerous nephews, nieces, family, and friends whose lives she touched.

Denise was preceded in death by her father, Mike Baca; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Lorenzo and Linda Castillo; and her maternal grandparents, Julian and Florinda Garcia, as well as her paternal grandparents, Fulgencio and Monica Baca.

Funeral services for Denise will be Saturday, November 8, 2025 beginning with a rosary at 10AM at Saint Mary's Catholic Church in Vaughn, immediately followed by the funeral Mass. The service will be celebrated by Father Timothy Meurer.

Her journey may have ended, but Denise Castillo’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. She will be remembered fondly for her compassion, dedication to family, and vibrant spirit that touched the lives of many. The pallbearers who will honor her memory include Samantha Baca, Luzia Manuel, Lefonso Castillo, Sr., Lefonso Castillo, Jr., Jacob Tenorio, Jason Tenorio, Arianna Sanchez, Joaquin Manuel, Jr., and Patricia Martinez. As honorary pallbearers, family, friends, staff, and children of Vaughn Municipal Schools will join in celebrating her life and legacy..

Services are under the direction of Chavez Funeral Home of Santa Rosa, 923 S. Third St., Santa Rosa, NM 88435. 575-472-3369.