Theresa "Terri" Arlene Valdez

Theresa (“Terri”) Arlene Valdez joined our Heavenly Father on April 2, 2026 after enduring a long and courageous health battle at the age of 65. Terri was surrounded by her devoted husband of almost 42 years, Felipe and her two daughters. Terri was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, daughter, cousin, aunt, and friend.

Born and raised in Los Alamos NM, she grew up with her parents, three sisters and brother. She was a graduate of the Los Alamos High School class of 1978 and was an early graduate as a junior. She worked for National Defense Contractors for both Los Alamos and Sandia Labs and ended her career with Peacock Law Firm. She was an intelligent and ambitious person. Terri was described as a hard worker who put her heart and soul into any job she held.

She met Felipe, the love of her life, when she was just 24 years old. They moved to Edgewood, NM and started a family shortly thereafter. Raising her two daughters Elisha and Darlene gave her so much joy. Terri was a nurturing and compassionate mother who was a strong protector.

Her talent for sewing and crocheting was a lifelong gift that remained a source of comfort and purpose throughout her final days. Even while receiving care, Terri’s focus remained on others. She often surprised her nurses with crocheted gifts and delighted in crafting something special for anyone she knew was expecting a child.

Her own heart found its greatest peace on the water. She cherished every moment spent fishing alongside her husband, finding joy in the quiet companionship and the simple beauty of a day spent together on the lake.

Terri was a true “hands-on” grandmother. From baking and painting with her granddaughter to catching grasshoppers and lizards with her grandson in the backyard. She loved to meet up with friends or family for lunch, shopping, or going to the movies.

She also volunteered many hours at the Bethel Community Storehouse in Moriarty. Terri was a devout Catholic, and even through her challenging health journey, her faith in God and commitment to our Lord never ceased.

There was a magnetic kindness to Terri; her spirit was so welcoming that people were instinctively drawn to the light she shared through her smile. Her vibrant personality and liveliness made people feel comfortable to be around. Terri will be known for her sense of humor, thoughtfulness, bravery, unwavering strength and faith. Her kind spirit made everyone feel like family.

She is lovingly remembered by her husband, Felipe, and her daughters, Elisha (Noah) Parraz and Darlene (Edward) Lopez. Her legacy lives on through her grandchildren, Lucas and Eryn. She is also survived by her mother, Virginia Romero; siblings Fermin Romero, Jeanette Romero, Cathy Fresquez (Bennie), and Stella Romero; brothers-in-law Mike Valdez (Anna) and Frank Valdez (Diann); and her special cousin, Michelle Perea, along with their respective families, many loving godchildren and friends.

She is preceded in death by her father, Fermin Romero; her father-in-law, Severino Valdez; and her mother-in-law, Reggie Valdez. Godson Isaac Wildenstein.

Gone But Never Forgotten!

A celebration of Terri’s life will be held at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church in Edgewood on Saturday April 18, 2026 with rosary being recited at 10:00 am followed by the celebration of the Mass at 11:00 am. If you would like to send flowers, please attach her name and send them to Harris-Hanlon Mortuary in Moriarty, NM.