Santiago (Jimmy) Lopez Serna

Santiago (Jimmy)Lopez Serna often known to many as Teclas, was a cherished partner, father, grandfather, great grandfather and a beloved member of the Las Cruces and Tortugas Communities. Jimmy lived a life filled with dedication, love and a profound appreciation for the simple joys. A steadfast member of the Laborer's International Union Local 16 since 1957 and a proud National Guard Veteran. He dedicated decades of his career to local residential and commercial construction projects as well as working on the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, Masonry work and also included being a truck driver. For 40 years he was a valued employee at Wooten Construction Company. Beyond his professional achievements, Jimmy worked at his family home building an extension to his house and also crafting picnic tables, a shed and even a dog house for his beloved Luka. His resourcefulness extended to his mechanical skills, as he always preferred repairing rather than replacing. Jimmy's zest for life was evident in his love for dancing to any genres of music to include Rock N Roll to any type of Mexican music. He was a master tomato and chili gardener! He was a jack of all trades but in his his work, it had to be the Jimmy's method of doing things. Outdoors, he found joy In California as he experienced dinner theaters, the Pacific Ocean all while enjoying his fresh shrimp. His competitive spirit came alive through his enthusiasm for sports and enjoyed placing bets on his favorite horse races. He was a devoted Philadelphia Eagles fan though having a secret fondness of the Dallas Cowboys. Jimmy's time in Las Vegas was highlighted by his love of the casinos, particularly playing craps where his friendly rapport with Pit Bosses earned him numerous complimentary dinners and hotel stays. Let's not forget his daily trips to buy Lotto and of course the Crossword Scratchers. At home sitting in his favorite chair, he enjoyed simpler pleasures watching endless black and white Westerns while eating pinon nuts, butterscotch suckers, as Jimmy loved all kinds of sweets. His legacy in sports extended to playing softball and coaching young players. Jimmy is survived by his devoted life partner, Isabelle Paz Pena whom he affectionally referred to as his "Sweetie”. His children are Leticia Serna and Silvia O. Ramirez with spouse Salvador Ramirez Jr.. His surviving siblings include Jose Serna and Pete Serna. His predeceased siblings are Enrique Serna, Johnny Serna, Amalia Jimenez, Maggie Tinajero, Carmen York, Lydia Barela, Chavela Estrada and Antonia Montoya. He also leaves behind Grand Children, Jeremy Santana (Deceased), Orlando Santana & spouse Lisa Santana and Akima Rae Ramirez (Deceased),Great Grand Children are Destiny Rae Santana, Diego Santana, and X-Zavier Santana. Great-Great Grand Children: Izaiah (Junie) Iniguez Jr. A special angel has indeed sprouted his wings but the legacy of Santiago (Jimmy) Lopez Serna will endure in the hearts of his family, friends and community.

Services will be held on May 13, 2026 at St. Genevieve Church Rosary 10 am and Mass 10:30 am, Grave site Burial following Mass will be at Hillcrest Cemetery. Celebration of Life Reception at Eddie's Event Hall 2825 N. Main Street Las Cruces from 1-3pm