Roy H. Gonzales

Roy H. Gonzales, a devoted family man and respected professional, passed away unexpectedly on June 14, 2026, at Presbyterian Hospital in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Born on March 12, 1943, in Santa Rosa, NM, Roy lived a life rooted in dedication, both to his career and to his loved ones.  He was raised in Santa Rosa, where he also attended school and graduated from Santa Rosa High School.

Roy’s enduring commitment to public service was evident in his more than 30 years of work with the New Mexico State Highway Department, where he retired as a Project Manager. Throughout his career, he demonstrated diligence and leadership, contributing significantly to the infrastructure and safety of his community. Earlier in life, during the early 1980s, Roy was also a proud member of The Mounted Patrol, a testament to his sense of service and community involvement.

Aside from his professional accomplishments, Roy found joy and solace in the outdoors. He enjoyed fishing and hunting, pursuits that allowed him to connect with nature and create lasting memories. He was also a parishioner at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church.

He is survived by his beloved sons, Dennis Gonzales and his wife Anna of Las Vegas, NM, and Francisco Gonzales and his wife Abigail of Rio Rancho, NM; daughters Monique Gonzales and her husband Carlos, and Yolette Gallegos and her husband Frank, both residing in Santa Rosa, NM. Roy was a cherished grandfather to seven grandchildren and a great-grandfather to two great-grandchildren, his sister; Frances Murray, his in-laws; Yvette (David) Rivera, Ralph Sierra, Steve (Dolores) Sierra and Gene (Angela) Sierra, in addition to numerous other family members and friends who held him dear.

Roy was preceded in death by his loving wife, Clara Gonzales; his sister, Julia Sisneros; his brother, Rudy Salazar; and his parents, Frank Gonzales and Gabriela Salazar.

A graveside service to honor Roy’s memory will be held on June 20, 2026, beginning at 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Cemetery in Santa Rosa, NM, located in Santa Rosa.   Friends and family are invited to gather to pay their respects and celebrate the life of a man who served his community with integrity and cared deeply for his family.

Pallbearers are; Alec Gonzales, Javier Gallegos, Lucas Gonzales, Eva Gallegos, Erik Gonzales and Greg Gallegos.  Honorary Pallbearers will be Roy's nephews and nieces.

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

Flowers may be sent to the funeral home.  The florist serving this area is Wild At Heart Floral in Tucumcari, NM.  575-461-3344.

Roy H. Gonzales will be remembered for his unwavering dedication, his love of the outdoors, and the profound impact he had on all who knew him. His legacy lives on through his family and the many lives he touched during his lifetime.