Roy E. Salazar Sr.

Roy Eugene Salazar Sr., age 77, passed away peacefully on March 6, 2026, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, surrounded by the love of his family and friends. Born on January 2, 1949, in Española, New Mexico, Roy lived a life marked by dedication, warmth, and quiet artistry.

After high school, he proudly served in the Marine Corps and bravely deployed during the Vietnam War. That experience shaped his strong sense of duty and led him to later participate in Search and Rescue operations. Following his military service, Roy continued the family legacy as a Funeral Director at Block-Salazar Mortuary, established by his parents Ramoncito and Alberta Salazar. He also worked at Berardinelli’s Family Funeral Service, as a Loan Officer for El Pueblo State Bank, and as a Security Guard for Los Alamos National Labs before retiring.

Roy was a gifted woodcarver who took special pride in crafting walking sticks and other wooden pieces. His work reflected his deep appreciation for nature and craftsmanship, and he delighted in sharing it with others at local events. Above all, he was a devoted father and grandfather. He filled his children’s childhoods with camping and fishing trips, coached their sports teams, and created lasting memories. He cherished his role as grandfather to Scarlett Hernandez, Savanah Salazar, Adrian Romero, Julian Romero, Roy Eugene Salazar III, and Little Waldy. Roy’s kind and humble spirit, generosity, and love of good food, family meals, and lively conversation endeared him to everyone who knew him. He remained an avid 49ers fan, enjoyed oldies, Christian, and country music, and shared a brotherly bond with his longtime best friend Kenny Vigil.

Roy is survived by his children, Briana Valencia and Roy Eugene Salazar Jr.; his grandchildren, Scarlett Hernandez, Savanah Salazar, Adrian Romero, Julian Romero, Roy Eugene Salazar III, and Little Waldy; his siblings Clyde Salazar (Lucy), Richard Salazar (Carol), Carmela Salazar and her son John Ramon Vigil, and Teresa Martinez (Lee); his cherished friend Kenny Vigil; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. He was predeceased by his daughter Amy Salazar, granddaughter Kishaw Romero, brothers Gilbert Salazar and Adolfo Salazar, and his parents Ramoncito and Alberta Salazar.