Joe P. Portillos (Bito) 83 a lifelong resident of Springer, New Mexico went to meet his maker our Lord Jesus Christ on Thursday, March 13, 2014. Joe is survived by his loving spouse Shirley of Springer, son Joe III wife Kita of Florida, daughter Tina and Salomon Jaramillo of Raton, daughter Danita (Dee Dee) and husband Danny of Springer, daughter Cheri and husband Moses of Africa. Joe is also survived by 10 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Joe is survived by brothers Louie, Robert, Albert, Gilbert and George. Joe was preceded in death by his Father Joe and mother Luguardia, sisters Erlinda and Antoinetta, and granddaughter Roxanne.
Joe worked until retirement at the New Mexico Boys School in Springer where he helped shape many young lives onto a better path, and helped train many young correctional officers. Even unto his last days Joe was being remembered and prayed for by some of the very young men whose lives he helped to change. Joe’s co-workers and friends remember Joe as a kind, loving and joking man with a friendly demeanor.
Joe was a U.S. Army and Army National guard retiree and Veteran. Joe saw active duty service in Korea and served his remaining years as a citizen soldier. Joe received the Army Good Conduct and Army Service medals, as well as the Korea overseas service ribbon with one campaign star.
Joe was a dedicated Catholic and member and parishioner of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church of Springer and St. Vincent De Paul Catholic Church in Maxwell. Joe looked forward each Sunday to attending church to give praise to the Lord, pray for family and friends and socialize with his friends.
Joe loved going to The Springer Senior Citizens Center and playing pool and visiting with his friends. Joe was a loving and caring man and his wife, children and grandchildren always came first.
Services for Joe will be held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Springer on Saturday March 22, 2014. The most Holy Rosary will be held at 9:00 a.m. followed by a Mass at 10:00 a.m. and in inurnment at the Springer cemetery.
Arrangements for Joe P. Portillos “Bito” are under the care and direction of the Alderette Pomeroy Funeral Home of Raton.
