It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Joshua Nickolas Ruiz. Joshua passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, March 23, 2026, in Tortugas, NM at his residence. He was born on May 5, 1992, to Bridgette Ruiz Aragon in El Paso, TX.

Josh attended local elementary and high schools. Soon after, Joshua moved to Austin, TX to live with his Aunt Carla Ruiz. He lived there for 10 years. He took on several jobs from cook to maintenance man. At every job he excelled and made long-lasting friends. Ten years later, he moved back to New Mexico, leaving his adopted family to be with his mother, grandfather, brother, uncles, aunts and his many cousins. He was his grandfather’s shadow, and they were inseparable. His hobbies were tattooing and fishing with his grandfather, they shared a truly timeless bond. Joshua loved his family and spent as much time he could with them. He loved helping his grandfather and aunts at the annual fiestas at Our Lady of Guadalupe Shrine and Parish. Joshua’s superpower was his magnetic personality and his incredible ability to make people laugh. His smile always brightened the room. He touched many lives, and he will be deeply missed.

Joshua is survived by his daughter Aiyanna Lee Ruiz from Colorado, mother Bridgette Ruiz Aragon, brother Julian Ruiz, brother Isaiah Dominguez, grandfather Alfredo Ruiz and Aunts Carla Ruiz and Kris Kaheny from Austin, TX and niece Gianna Ruiz. Also survived by many uncles, aunts and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother Emma Ruiz, paternal grandfather Manuel Ruiz, aunt/uncle Raul and Aurora Lucero, uncle Jimmy Gonzales, uncle Eliberto Ruiz and many other loving family members.

Pallbearers will be Julian Ruiz, Mel Romero, Steven Fisher, Paul Mirabal and Raymond Montya.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, April 1, at 9:30 am and Mass celebration will follow. All services will be held in Our Lady of Guadalupe Shrine and Parish, 3600 Parroquia St., Tortugas, NM.