Carlos Valdez, 65, of Española, New Mexico, passed away on September 15, 2026. He was born on June 9, 1961. Carlos dedicated 26 years to education, serving as a professor at New Mexico State University from 1996 until his retirement in 2022. He touched the lives of many students and colleagues throughout his career.

Carlos enjoyed watching movies and sitcoms, especially The Cosby Show and Frasier. He had a passion for Native tribal pottery and loved spending time at home with his beloved puppies, Tootsie and Puppy.

Carlos shared several years of his life with Raymundo Terrazas and became a cherished part of the Terrazas family. He will be lovingly remembered by his sister-in-law, Alexandria Terrazas and her partner, Fred Baca; mother-in-law, Mary Terrazas; step-nephews, Rogelio Terrazas and Emiliano Terrazas; and step-niece, Ninfa Terrazas.

Carlos will be deeply missed by his loved ones, friends, former students, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will live on through the lives he touched and the family who welcomed him and loved him as one of their own.

May he rest in peace

Editor’s note: Carlos Valdez also taught at Pojoaque Valley High School for more than 10 years and was the beloved Los Alamos County Extension Agent for many years.