In Loving Memory of Mary B. Archuleta

In Loving Memory of Mary B. Archuleta
August 3, 1943 – September 18, 2026

Mary B. Archuleta, age 83, passed away suddenly on September 18, 2026. Mary was a lifelong resident of Raton, New Mexico, before entering Colfax General Longterm Care in August 2025.

Mary was born on August 3, 1943, in Springer, New Mexico, to the late Daniel Bustos and Berlinda (Cordova) Bustos. She experienced tremendous responsibility at a young age, losing her mother when she was only seven years old. Following her mother’s passing, Mary and her younger siblings went on to live with their paternal grandparents. As the oldest daughter, Mary lovingly embraced a motherly role for her younger siblings, helping care for and guide them through difficult times. Her willingness to shoulder such responsibility at a young age reflected the strength, compassion, and resilience that would define her throughout her life.

Mary was a fiercely independent woman who was not easily intimidated and rarely backed down from a challenge. She valued her independence deeply and did not like relying on others, choosing instead to face life’s hardships with determination and grit. Her strong will, courage, and unwavering spirit earned the respect of those who knew her and helped her overcome many obstacles throughout her life.

Mary is preceded in death by her parents; her children, Edwin Archuleta and Berlinda Espinoza; her grandchildren, Vanessa Najera and John H. Archuleta III; Siblings, Mary Helen Romero, Lorraine Bustos, and Fred Bustos.

She is survived by her children; Bernice Sisneros (Leroy) of Raton NM, John H. Archuleta Jr. (Liz) of Roswell, NM. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren, Veronica Bernal (Charlie), Apryll Lopez (Troy), and Jesse Espinoza all of Raton, New Mexico.

Mary was blessed with numerous great-grandchildren, including Anjelica Concha (Daniel)(Raton,NM), Amanda Ramirez (Las Vegas, NV), Adrianne Lopez (Raton, NM), DeeAnna Najera (Raton, NM), Joshua Lopez (Raton, NM), and Londyn Morphew (Trinidad, CO), as well as many beloved great-great-grandchildren.

She is also survived by her siblings, Carlos Bustos (Martha) of Mora, NM, Tony Bustos of Springer, NM; Johnny Bustos (Rita) of Las Vegas, NM, and Danny Bustos (Maria) of Las Cruces NM.

She leaves behind a special niece, Linda Archuleta, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss her dearly.

In her younger years, Mary enjoyed attending dances and spending time with family and friends. She became an Avon representative and was well known throughout the community for going door-to-door, building friendships wherever she went. Many young girls adored her because she always shared perfume and lipstick samples, making them feel special and loved. Later, Mary worked in housekeeping before eventually becoming disabled.

Mary also had a deep love for animals, especially her dogs. Throughout her life, every dog she owned carried the name “Wolfie,” a tradition that brought her great joy. Each Wolfie held a special place in her heart and was always a loyal terrier with a distinctive gray coat. She loved and adored every one of them, treating them as cherished members of her family. Her affection for her animals reflected the same loyalty, compassion, and devotion she showed to the people she loved.

Mary’s life was defined by her dedication to family, her generous heart, and her unwavering love for those around her. Though she could be strong-willed and fiercely protective, she also possessed a caring spirit and deep compassion for others. She touched countless lives through her kindness, humor, strength, and resilience. Her memory will live in the hearts of all who knew and loved her, and she will be remembered not only for her devotion to family and friends but also for the special bond she shared with her beloved Wolfies over the years.