Santana Lucero

Santana “Tana” Lucero

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Santana Lucero, age 70, on December 17, 2024. Surrounded by the love of her family, she peacefully departed this world, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, kindness, and selfless service.

Born on April 5, 1954, in Duran, NM where she and her 13 siblings grew and flourished. Tana graduated from Encino High School and attended TVI in Albuquerque, NM where she developed her love of numbers, accounting, and finance. Santana married Adolfo Lucero on February 8, 1975 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Duran, NM. Tana was employed by Citizens Bank of Vaughn and then later in her career, became the head of bookkeeping of Mitchell Petroleum in Santa Fe, NM. 

Tana was a natural caregiver whose gentle spirit touched the lives of all who knew her. Her life was a testament to the power of love and generosity. She had an innate ability to sense the needs of others, always offering a helping hand, a listening ear, or a warm embrace. Her home was a sanctuary where family and friends felt loved.

Among her greatest joys were her beloved grandchildren, Marcos Lucero and Breanne Lucero. They were the light of her life, and she cherished every moment spent with them, filling their hearts with stories, laughter, and unconditional love. Her role as a grandmother brought her boundless pride and joy, and her legacy will live on in their hearts.

Tana was preceded in death by her parents Demetrio and Isabell Chavez and her siblings Frank Chavez, Betty Flores, Donaciano Chavez, Augustin Chavez, and Santiago Chavez. 

She is survived by her husband, Adolfo Lucero of Fort Sumner, two sons, John Lucero of Santa Fe and Joshua Lucero and wife Cynthia of Fort Sumner. She is also survived by two grandchildren Marcos Lucero and Breanne Lucero of Fort Sumner, her siblings Trinidad Chavez of Alamogordo, Carol Vigil of Portales, Tranquilino Chavez of Alamogordo, Viola Saiz of Clovis, Demetrio Chavez JR of Peralta, Raul Chavez of Duran, and Tommie Montoya of Roswell along with a host of nieces and nephews who will continue to honor her memory. Her love was a guiding force in the lives of those she cherished, and her impact will be felt for generations to come.

Viewing and Visitation will be held at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Duran, New Mexico beginning at 10am on Friday, December 27, 2024. Rosary followed by the funeral Mass will begin at 11am with Father Tim Meuer officiating. Pallbearers will include Leroy Chavez, Rafael Chavez, Gilbert Chavez, Josh Lucero, John Lucero, and Marcos Lucero. Cremation will follow the services. A celebration of Tana's life will follow the funeral Mass at the Duran Community Center. Family, friends, and all who were touched by her warmth are invited to attend and share stories, memories, and reflections on her beautiful life. 

Interment of cremains will be held at a later date in the family plot at Pinos Wells Cemetery, Pinos Wells, New Mexico.

Arrangements are under the direction of Chavez Funeral Home, 830 N. Fifth Street, Fort Sumner, New Mexico. (575) 355-2311.