Vicente Tapia

We are saddened by the loss of Vicente Tapia, who passed away November 1, 2025, at the age of 86. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin and friend to so many. Vicente is preceded in death by his parents, Alfredo and Isabelita Tapia, his grandson, Timothy Lundy, brothers Fermino, Nick, Pete, and Benny Tapia. Vicente is survived by his wife of 59 years, Ella Tapia, son Vincent Chris Tapia and daughter Michelle and husband Patrick Gallegos. Grandchildren Stephanie Fuentes, Kristine and husband Eli Malizzo. Great grandson, Elijah. Brothers Mike and wife Barbara, Fred and wife Ramona, Santos and wife Helen, Jimmy and wife Georgia and Leroy and wife Rose Tapia. Sisters Jean Ortiz, Virginia Ortiz, Toni and husband Gillie Encinias and Annabell and husband Steve Gallegos and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Vicente was born at Tapia Rancho, New Mexico. He was one of a kind and a role model for his children, grandchildren and great grandson. Vicente exemplifies the true meaning of hard work. From working at the ranch during his childhood to working as a foreman for JW Jones Construction. He later worked for the State of New Mexico Highway Department where he retired. After retirement, he continued to work for the Kings Ranch during harvest season and supported in helping his family, friends, and anyone who needed help. He was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus and volunteered at the St. Vincent de Paul food pantry in Edgewood and Moriarty. His greatest joy was spending time with his family, friends and visiting his childhood home at Tapia Ranch. Serving as Pallbearers are his brothers, Mike, Fred, Santos, Jimmy and Leroy Tapia. Honorary Pallbearers are his godsons, Greg Ortiz, James Romero, Ernest Tapia, brothers in law, Gillie Encinias and Steve Gallegos and his dear close friends Charles Tenorio and Max Lopez. Services will be held on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church in Moriarty. Viewing will begin at 8:30 am, rosary at 9:00 am and mass at 10:00 am. The family requests that you please join us for a meal following the service at the Moriarty Civic Center, followed by the burial services at Mesa de Los Cavos cementary in Tapia, New Mexico.