Half

Obituary for ARIAS


Published in the Albuquerque Journal on Saturday February 06, 2010

Johnny Angel Arias Sr., 39, resident of Albuquerque, passed away Wednesday, February 3, 2010. He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Delenia Arias; daughter, Angelique Arias; son, Johnny Angel Arias Jr.; mother, Mary Alice Arellano; step-father, Ernie Arellano; brothers, Leonard Arias and wife, Sarah, Amadeo "Deo" Soto and Deborah Arellano, Robert Arellano, Juan Gillette, and Chris "Raymond" Torres; sisters, Crystal Criswell and husband, Adam, and Valentina Arellano; half-brothers, Johnny Leonard Arias and Peter Arias; half-sister, Theresa Arias; grandmother, Nadine YBarra; mother and father-in law Donna and Vince Vigil; brothers-in law George Archuleta, Vincent Vigil, Michael Paul Vigil and families; and several extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by grandfather, Amadeo YBarra; half-brother, Raymond Arias Jr.; and special uncle, Ernest Gutierrez. Johnny was born in Albuquerque, and grew up in Roy and Springer, NM. He was an outstanding athlete at Springer High School. In 1987 he enlisted in the Army National Guard and served honorably in the war in Iraq. Johnny began his career as a correctional officer in October of 1990. After rising through the ranks, he eventually reached the position of Deputy Warden at the New Mexico State Penitentiary. Johnny was a loving husband, father, son, brother and friend. He had a very big heart and was unselfish, dedicating much of his time coaching youth teams in Albuquerque. He always did for others expecting nothing in return. Johnny's memory will live with us forever. His bright spirit and sense of humor will be deeply missed. He was very devoted to his Catholic faith and raised his family with the same religious values. Friends may visit Monday, February 8, 2010 from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at French Mortuary, Westside Chapel. Rosary will be recited Monday, February 8, 2010, 7:30 p.m. at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 1502 Sara Rd, Rio Rancho, NM. Mass of Chrisitan Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, February 9, 2010, 10:30 a.m. at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church. Burial will follow at Roy Cemetery in Roy, NM. Please visit our online guest book for Johnny at www.RememberTheirStory.com French 9300 Golf Course Rd. NW (505) 897-0300