Pamela Rose Montoya, age 40 years old, a resident of Santa Fe, New Mexico, beloved daughter, cherished sister, sweet aunt, beautiful niece, and friend to all, passed away on May 30, 2023. Pamela was a delightful woman with special needs who had the ability to inspire acceptance and love in everyone she met. Pam graduated from Santa Fe High School in 2008 and received a standing ovation at the commencement ceremony. Pam led a very full life. She and her family embarked on many adventures together including horseback riding, skiing, Special Olympics, bowling, camping, and traveling to Hawaii, Florida, Tennessee and California. Pam demonstrated courage and happiness in all her activities. Her face lit up with joy when she was in the water. Her eagerness and fun in the pool or in the bath delighted those around her. Pam’s time at Phame broadened her world. She excitedly played with her plastic toys, rolled on stage for musical productions, and relished the activities around her. Pam’s enthusiasm for music was legendary. No one could stand in front of her TV when her Disney musicals were on! Whether she was listening to music at Mass, a concert, or a sporting event, her body moved with pure joy and her smile was infectious. When Pam danced, we all wanted to dance. Pam did not limit her entertainment interests. She enjoyed watching sports both live and on TV with her caring mom Dora and Ray, a man who so lovingly, effortlessly, and beautifully filled the role of a caring Father after the passing of her devoted Dad, Johnny. Pam had the loveliest demeanor that drew people to her. Time spent with family meant eating delicious food, laughing at her two affectionate brothers, reaching out to grab and smile at those around her, and basking in the love bestowed upon her by her cousins, aunts, nephews, nieces, sisters-in-law, and friends. Although wheelchair bound Pam’s life was as fulfilling and fun (maybe more) as any able-bodied person. Most importantly, her unbridled enthusiasm for everything and her strength to beat the odds against her, inspired us to be grateful and joyous in our lives. We will be forever blessed and thankful for the gift of our Pamela Rose. Pamela is survived by her mother Dora Montoya; second dad Ray Roybal; brother James, sister-in-law Yvonne; brother Stephen, sister-in-law Alicia; nieces Miacera, Cienna, and Julia; nephews Jason and Marcus; aunt Gloria and uncle Danny Martinez; aunt Celina Salazar; aunt Janet and uncle Nathan Sommer; Padrinos Elsie and Joe Ruiz; and many wonderful cousins. Pamela was preceded in death by her loving, caring, and devoted dad Johnny Montoya; paternal grandfather Ramon N. Montoya; maternal grandparents Angelina and Joseph Romero. The family gives many thanks to Pam’s caregivers and physical therapists who over the years gave her quality of life. We would like to acknowledge R-way and their support staff for all their care and support to Pam throughout the years. The family is especially thankful for Sofia Rubio. As Pamela’s primary caregiver Sofia provided an extraordinary level of care and love for over 15 years. She was Pam’s second mom. The family is forever thankful for Sofia’s amazing dedication and unwavering support for our beloved Pamela.
The viewing will take place at Berardinelli Family Funeral in Santa Fe, NM on Thursday June 15, 2023 at 6:30 PM. The Rosary and eulogy will follow at 7 PM. The Mass is at St. Anne’s Church on Friday June 16 at 10 AM.
Pallbearers are Jason Montoya, Marcus Williams, Nathan Sommer, Roger Mendiola, Jose Nino, and Luis Daniel Escobedo.
Honorary Pallbearers are Joe Ruiz, Nazario Roybal, Jeremy Mendiola, and Danny Nino.