Dolores C. Valdez

Dolores C. Valdez, known as “Dolo,” of Aztec, New Mexico, (hometown Ignacio, Colorado) passed away peacefully on August 8, 2025, due to complications related to cancer.

Born on April 1, 1948, in Los Angeles, California, to Isabel (Sanchez) Valdez and Andres Valdez, Dolo was a beloved daughter, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend. A woman of faith, she was a devoted member of Saint Joseph's Catholic Church. She was deeply loved by the many friends and family whose lives she touched

Dolo was an avid Denver Broncos and Colorado Rockies fan, and a proud supporter of her nephew Ayden and the Durango Demon football team. She found joy in simple pleasures—spending time in her yard, tending to her flowers, working on puzzles, and staying connected with those dear to her through Facebook.

She is survived by her son, Joby Rivera (Haley) of Cheraw, South Carolina; four grandchildren: Antonio, Roberto, Francisco, and Enrique; her siblings: Mary Helen Vannoy (Roger), Georgann Valdez, Stephen Valdez, Barbara Atencio (Alex), Marie Valdez, and Dorothea Valdez; and her cherished aunt, Della Sanchez. She also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends—including her best friend, Karen Rainwater Harris.

Dolo was preceded in death by her parents, Isabel and Andres Valdez; her soulmate of 25 years, Jerry Cruz; her sister, Theresa Gallegos; and her brother, Louis Valdez.

A private memorial service will be held. She will be laid to rest at Ignacio West Cemetery, near her beloved mother.