Joseph “Ray” Valdez, of Albuquerque

Of Albuquerque, went to be with our Lord on January 9, 2023 in the comfort of his home. He was born December 14, 1940 in Taos, New Mexico to the late Jose “Manuel” and Azucena Valdez. He attended Taos High School where he was very athletic and played many sports. He later attended New Mexico State University, studying mechanical engineering and played football. Ray had a passion for martial arts earning a 5th degree black belt, he studied and taught Shōrin-ryō karate for 35 years in Taos and Albuquerque. He was preceded in death by wife Josephine, parents Jose “Manuel” and Azucena, siblings, Carlos, Fernando, Dollie Mondragon, Cecilia Sandoval and Rita Romero and grandson Matthew Anaya. He is survived by siblings Rich “Dickie” and Rosalie Romero. His 6 children, Elizabeth (Edward) Mier, Joseph (Kasha), John “Manuel” (Elaine), Patricia (George) Anaya, Joseph “Ray” (Janice), David (Sophia), 16 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren, nieces, nephews other relatives and many friends. Service will be Thursday, February 2, 2023 at 10:00am at Legacy Church East Campus 4701 Wyoming Blvd NE, Albuquerque NM 87109.