Nina Sue Upchurch

Nina Sue Upchurch, 86, of Rio Rancho, New Mexico, went home to Jesus on March 4, 2026.

Sue was born to Jessie and Nellie Rawlings on March 13, 1939, in Waverly Tennessee. Proceeded in death are her siblings Jay Cee Rawlings, Virginia Rawlings and Helen Rawlings. Sue’s living siblings are Richard Rawlings and James Rawlings. Sue played high school basketball and later moved to Washington DC to work after graduation. Sue loved to talk about the adventures she had with her siblings Helen and Richard Rawlings in DC during the time President John F. Kennedy was in office and many more stories of all her siblings, JayCee Rawlings, Virginia Rawlings, Helen Rawlings, Richard Rawlings and James Rawlings.

Sue is survived by her children Reece Bennett Graham, Starla Montoya and her grandchildren Sydney Holguin and Ashton Holguin. Sue met her husband, Sydney Dennes Upchurch in Waverly Tennessee and later moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico in 1982. Syd and Sue had three children together, Stevie Upchurch, Stacy Upchurch and Starla (Upchurch) Montoya. Sue worked as a supervisor for Total Petroleum, a cash auditor for Dillards and later taught first grade at New Life Baptist Academy. Sue, dedicated and hardworking, retired at the age of 71 to lovingly help take care of her grandchildren.

Sue was known for her honesty, her humility, her sense of humor and her unconditional love for her family. She didn’t seek attention or praise, yet she quietly left a powerful legacy through the lives she touched. Sue’s biggest enjoyment was taking care of her grandkids and grandpups. Named “Memaw” by her grandchildren, Sue lived a life full of sacrificial and impactful love, an example that will live on in her family for generations to come.

A celebration of Sue’s life will be held on March 21, 2026, at 1:00, at Leandro and Starla’s home. 412 Paseo Vista Loop NE, Rio Rancho, New Mexico 87124.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the caring and compassionate professionals at

Trujillo Family Funeral Home

"Our Family Serving Yours"

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