Antonio "Tony" Trujillo Ortega

It is with deep sorrow and heartfelt love that we announce the passing of Antonio “Tony” Trujillo Ortega, who left this world on Monday, November 24, 2025, at the age of 83. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, Tony's presence in our lives will be profoundly missed. Though our hearts are heavy with grief, we take comfort in knowing that he is now free from pain and at peace.

Born on April 29, 1942, in Chiz, New Mexico, to Pedro and Clarita Ortega, Tony’s life was marked by a sense of purpose, resilience, and joy. Growing up on his family’s ranch, Tony learned the value of hard work and determination, traits that shaped the remarkable man he became. His infectious smile and charismatic nature made him beloved by all who knew him, and his loving heart was the foundation of the deep connections he forged with family, friends, and colleagues throughout his life.

Tony was a talented athlete, excelling in basketball, football, and track during his high school years. He was selected to attend the 1961 New Mexico Boys State and was named Mr. HSH of Hot Springs High School. His dedication to service led him to honorably serve as a Staff Sergeant in the New Mexico National Guard for eleven years, a time that added to his legacy of commitment and integrity.

On September 28, 1963, Tony married the love of his life, Gloria A. Ortega. Together, they created a life full of love, laughter, and warmth, sharing 62 years of marriage. Their children, Karen (Richard) Melendrez, Jerry (Kelly) Ortega, Deborah (Gilbert) Gamboa, and Melissa (Donnie) Fontenot, cherish the memories of countless family meals, joyful gatherings, and the strong, loving bond that defined their parents’ relationship. Tony’s legacy lives on in his grandchildren: Tyrel (Caitlin) Ortega, Drake Hall, Zane (Denise) Ortega, Stanley Hall, Hailey (Austin) Diodene, Kaylynn Melendrez, Kimberly Melendrez, River Gamboa, Drew Ruddick, and Luke Ruddick; and his great-grandchildren, Rhett, Desmond, Abigail, Elliot, and Evie, all of whom he adored deeply.

Tony’s career was a testament to his work ethic and his desire to help others. He spent over 30 years in banking, achieving certification in National Installment Credit from The University of Oklahoma at Norman in 1978. His quick wit and genuine willingness to assist others earned him the admiration of countless people, many of whom sought his advice and guidance over the years. Later in life, Tony’s passion for real estate and business led him to become a licensed real estate agent and to open Mesilla Valley Feeds, a business he ran with pride for 25 years. His customers, many of whom became lifelong friends, were at the heart of his day-to-day work, and he took great joy in serving his community.

Tony’s true love, however, was his family and the life he built with Gloria on their pecan farm. For 45 years, he lived out his dream, roping, training, and riding his horses with his loved ones. He and his son built an arena where they could share the joys of riding and roping, and where the family gathered to make memories. Tony’s love for his family was always evident in his actions, and his unwavering support, energy, and encouragement were gifts that his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren will carry with them always.

Tony’s life taught us the importance of hard work, kindness, and the value of family. We will forever miss his laughter, his wisdom, his infectious energy, and, most of all, his warm and loving hugs.

Tony is preceded in death by his parents, Pedro and Clarita Ortega. He is survived by his loving wife, Gloria A. Ortega, his four children, eleven grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and a host of extended family and friends who will carry his memory with love and admiration.

A celebration of Tony's life will be held at San Albino Catholic Church in Mesilla, New Mexico on December 22, 2025, at 11:00. Family and friends will gather to honor the man whose life was a beacon of love, laughter, and devotion.

May his memory be a blessing and may he rest in eternal peace.