Teofilo Garcia Jr., age 81, a resident of Socorro, NM, passed away on September 27, 2023, surrounded by his three devoted daughters. He was born on December 26, 1941, in Magdalena, NM, to Teofilo Garcia Sr. and Manuela Villalobos. Teofilo always believed in hard work. He began working at the age of 9, doing any odd jobs he could, whether it be cleaning yards or picking cotton. He also served as an alter boy in Magdalena, NM. When he was old enough, he enlisted in the Army National Guard, while still working full time jobs, providing for his family. He later retired from the City of Socorro, and the Army National Guard. Teofilo enjoyed sitting outside on his porch listening to music, while taking care of his dozens of rabbits, who were all his pets. He also enjoyed being inside watching westerns on TV.

Teofilo Garcia Jr.

Teofilo Garcia Jr.

Teofilo is preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Alvita Chavez and Molly Talamante; grandson, Jordan Baldonado; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

He is survived by his children, Geraldine (Joey), and Kimberly Baldonado (Kenny), and Jennifer Garcia; grandchildren, Jeremy Zamora, Vanessa Pino (Michael), Cassandra Bechdel, Veronica Baldonado (Kevin), Erik, Danielle (Reyes), Edward Anthony Jr., and Jayden Garcia, and Garrett Rodriguez; great-grandchildren, Michaela and Mickey Pino, Audrina and Scotty Haley, Jayla, Erik Jr., and Zaylie Garcia, Andrew Martinez, Ava and DaVaghn Graham, Elijah and Tessa Marshall, Desiree Jaramillo, Isabelle Gonzales, and baby Rodriguez due in January; brother, Carlos Garcia (Manuela); sister, Tina Carrillo; and many nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

He will be dearly missed. It’s never goodbye, it’s see you later, or as he would say, “LET’S WENT”!

Services were held on Friday, October 6, 2023, at San Miguel Catholic Church in Socorro, NM, beginning with a Visitation at 9:00 AM, followed by a Rosary to be recited at 9:30 AM, and a Funeral Mass held at 10:00 AM. Interment followed the services at San Miguel Catholic Cemetery.

Arrangements are being handled by the caring professionals at the Noblin Funeral Service Belen Chapel, 418 W. Reinken Ave., (505) 864-4448, where an online guest register is available at www.noblin.com

El Defensor Chieftain