Sec Rivera

Jose Sec Rivera, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and esteemed member of the Santa Rosa community, passed away peacefully at his residence, surrounded by his loving family, on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at the age of 90. Born on December 6, 1935, in Santa Rosa, NM, Sec lived a life rich in love, family, and service to others.

Sec was a dedicated professional, taking over the General Contractor license from his father in 1958. He bought, owned, and operated Santa Rosa Lumber, where his expertise as a surveyor helped shape the landscape of the community he cherished. His passion for farming and ranching was evident throughout his life, and he not only cultivated land but also deep-rooted relationships with those around him.

Sec received his education in Santa Rosa, graduating from Santa Rosa High School in 1954. He went on to build a life that reflects the values he held dear. On June 2, 1956, he proudly married the love of his life, Delia Montoya, in a ceremony at St. John's Catholic Church in Borger, TX. Together, they nurtured a beautiful family filled with love and support.

A committed parishioner at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, Sec's faith guided him throughout his life. He demonstrated his dedication to his community in various ways, serving as a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus, as well as being a member of the Guadalupe County Soil and Water Conservation Board for an impressive 25 years.

Sec's interests extended beyond his work and community service. He had a creative flair, enjoying activities such as oil painting, leatherwork, and woodworking. Additionally, he cherished the time spent hunting, camping, and immersing himself in the joys of farming and ranching.

Sec is survived by his beloved wife, Delia Rivera, and their children, David (Yvette) Rivera and Catrina (Frank) Gallegos, daughter-in-law; Evelyn Rivera, all of Santa Rosa. He was a proud grandfather to Melissa (Roy) Jimenez of Abilene, TX; Jessica Rivera (Oscar Telles) of Las Cruces, NM; Nadine (Ricardo) Aguilar, residing in Germany, Christopher Gallegos, of Santa Rosa; and Daniel Rivera of Las Cruces, NM. Sec's legacy also extends to his great-grandchildren: Alani and Camden Jimenez; Sophia and Maddison Telles; Ricardo and Emma Aguilar; and Gabriel Rivera, as well as Mila, Giana, and Michael Bailey. He will be deeply missed by his cousin, Esther Baca, who was like a sister to him, along with his sisters-in-law, Rey Salazar and Alice Montoya, and numerous nephews, nieces, family, and friends.

Sec is preceded in death by his parents, Secundino Rivera and Eloisa (Padilla) Rivera; his son, Gabriel Rivera; special niece, Rosie Padilla, his brother, Granfe Rivera; his in-laws, David and Elena Montoya; and brothers-in-law, Charlie Montoya and Zenon Montoya.

Recitation of The Most Holy Rosary, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, January 23, 2026, beginning at 10AM at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Santa Rosa, with Father Jacob Romero celebrating the service.

Interment will follow in the family plot at St. Joseph Cemetery in Santa Rosa.

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

Sec Rivera's contributions to his family and community have left an indelible mark that will forever be cherished by those who knew and loved him.