Sandra Mae Padilla

1962-2020 Sandy Mae Padilla, age 58, a resident of Belen, NM passed away peacefully on November 2, 2020. She attended Calvary Fellowship Church in Belen. She preceded in death by her Father, Eloy “Duke” Padilla, Brother, Victor “Ron” Padilla and Peter Paul Padilla. She is survived by her Mother, Laura C. Padilla and Husband, Marco T. Morales, Brother, Frank M. Padilla, Sister-in-law, Loretta A. Padilla; nephew, Elijah J. Padilla and wife, Shaylyn. Nieces, Rebekah R. Padilla and Rachel J. Padilla; nephew Paul F. Padilla. Great niece, Gracelyn J. Padilla and Great nephew, Kace E. Padilla. Many Aunts, Uncles and cousins. Sandy grew up in Belen, attended and graduated from Belen High School in 1980. During her senior year, she participated in a Federal Job opportunity for young Latino/Latina seniors which was offered under the President, Jimmy Carter Administration. She applied, tested and then passed which made her eligible to move and work in a Federal Government position for one full year in Washington, D.C. Sandy had much Love and respect for her Senior teacher, Louisa Baldonado for encouraging her to apply herself and never give up on her dreams. She instilled a very valuable lesson to Sandy which she practiced religiously throughout her work career. Mrs. Baldonado said, “Always dress well and professional, if you dress professionally then you will perform professionally, and people will give you the respect that you deserve.” After completing the one year, she was offered a permanent position with the Internal Revenue Service. During the time in Washington, D.C. she made many Friends who she called her “adopted” Family. After fifteen years, she transferred to Albuquerque and continued her employment for an additional 18 years. She retired in 2015 after an accomplished 33-year career. Even through many years struggling with Diabetes, she fought many obstacles to continue to work as long as she could. She then moved back to Belen and lived in the home she grew up in. While back in NM, she reconnected with Friends and Family. Sandy was fond of her cousin Joe Mascareñas who she considered as a “brother.” Her best friend since childhood, Maggie Garcia, “Magdalena,” she considered a sister. Sandy Loved her Parents and three Brothers very much. She Loved her sister-in-law, Loretta Padilla and her nephews and nieces. Sandy had a very Dear and Loyal Friend and co-worker, Albert Llambi who cared and was always there for her as she too was there for him. “Special Thanks!” goes out to him for his Genuine, un-conditional and sincere Love that he gave to her. Another very Dear Friend, Bill Taylor, was someone Sandy Loved to hang out with and was getting along quite well with, enjoying camping trips and movies, but suddenly passed away this past June. She did miss him very much and struggled with his passing. Sandy raised Chihuahua puppies who she called her “Babies,” you often found Sandy with one or two of them in her arms. She always said they gave her so much Love. When Our Lord and Savior took Sandy to be with Him, Sandy was in her Home surrounded by her “Babies.” Sandy will be very much missed for her Loyalty, Generosity and Kindness, but especially her Smile. Due to the Covid-19 virus, the Family has future plans to organize a “Celebration of Life ceremony” at a later date when it will be safe for all to attend. The planting of a tree and the burial of her ashes will be held at this ceremony. Lastly, the Family wishes to Thank all of the Doctors and Medical staff for their care. Much Thanks to ALL of the Friends and Family and co-workers who were always there for our daughter and sister. God Bless You! Her brother Frank would like all of her friends and family to view: YouTube- “If Tomorrow Starts Without Me.” By David Romano, and asks that Everybody stays “SAFE and HEALTHY” during these troubled times. God Bless you All. Arrangements are being handled by the caring professionals at the Noblin Funeral Service Belen Chapel, 418 W. Reinken Ave., (505)864-4448.