It is with deep sadness and great appreciation for having spent so much time together,
(although it is never enough), that the family of Jesus L. Morales announce his passing at his home, as was his wish, on March 20, 2026. He was 100 years old.
He was born on June 19, 1925 to Inez O. Morales and Sara Lopez in Santa Rita, NM. He married his loving wife, Carmen (Salcido) on October 29, 1950 in Fierro, NM.
Chuy, Guerro, or Mayor, as he was affectionately known, was a very loving and caring father, husband, grandfather, brother, and uncle.
He grew up during the Great Depression, worked hard beginning at a very young age and then served in the military. He was a proud World War II Veteran having served with the US Navy on a minesweeper in the Asiatic Pacific Area from 1944-1946. Following his service to his country, Chuy returned to Santa Rita and worked for the Kennecott Copper Mining Company, married Carmen in 1950 and began a family. We remember his tender devotion to Carmen until her passing, especially during her dialysis treatments, where he would patiently wait, often lost in the pages of a Louis L'Amour novel. Shortly after Carmen's passing, he developed advanced macular degeneration and was no longer able to enjoy his books. He stayed positive and adapted to seeing the world in a new way. He never gave up or complained. He suffered a lasting heartbreak following the sudden death in 2016 of his youngest son, Bill, who was his constant companion.
He loved spending time with his children, grandchildren and all his family. He especially enjoyed traveling, hunting, fishing, going to the casino, watching the Dallas Cowboys, New York Yankees and LA Dodgers play, and working on his home projects. He kept to his mantra to never be a couch potato and always had a project to accomplish. He also never let an opportunity for joking or teasing go by as many victims can attest. He will also be remembered for his incredible patience, strength of will and love of country. Though his physical presence is no longer with us, he will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. May he rest in peace.
He is survived by his son, Sam Morales and wife Liz; three daughters, Lori Perea and husband Rene; Sara Vega and husband James; Julie Morales and husband Bob; three grandchildren, Tanya (David), Samuel Morales, and Sami Morales; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Carmen; one son, Bill Morales; one daughter, Mary Grace Morales; three brothers, Pedro, Antonio, and Luis Morales; three sisters, Margarita Gallardo, Nora Arzola, and Elisa Correa.
Visitation will be Friday, March 27th from 11-11:15am at Santa Clara Catholic Church with the holy rosary to commence at 11:15am. The funeral mass will follow at 12noon with Father Casmir Anozie officiating. Concluding service, the interment will take place at Fort Bayard National Cemetery with full military honors. Pallbearers are Alfredo Correa, James Vega, Rene Perea, Bob Morales, Sam Morales, and David K.
Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels "Trusted care for the ones you love" ~ 575-537-0777. To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com.
