Arnold Ray Moreno, 72, a resident of Hurley, NM passed away peacefully on Friday, January 16, 2026 at Gila Regional Medical Center, surrounded by his family. He was born April 9, 1953 in Silver City, NM to Manuel Moreno and Anita Rodriguez.
He was raised in Belen, NM where he graduated from Belen High School. He then married his wife, Mary Lee Peralta. In 1975 he and his wife then moved to Grant County where they made a home and raised a family in Hurley where he spent the remainder of his life. Arnold was a proud member of the community who touched the lives of many through his hard work, kindness, and devotion to family.
He was employed at the Kennecott Mine, H&H Laundry, and later retired from Fort Bayard Medical Center as a boiler operator. He took pride in providing for his family and was known for his strong work ethic and reliability. He never hesitated to help those in need. He would give the clothes off his back or the shoes off his feet literally, as he had returned home more than once without shoes because he had given them away.
When his children were younger, he took pride in coaching many of their baseball teams, always encouraging young players with patience and heart. Arnold had a deep love for the outdoors and simple pleasures. He enjoyed camping, building rock walls, hunting for arrowheads and spending time in nature. He loved tending to his yard, especially his rose bushes. He also had a special love for his 1977 Chevy truck, Betsy Lou which he drove with pride.
He is survived by his loving wife, of 51 years, with whom he shared a lifetime of love and memories, Mary P. Moreno of the family home; one son, Hilario "Larry" Moreno and wife Billie Jo of Belen, NM; two daughters, Jessica Escobar and husband Alex of Santa Clara; Stephanie Ramirez and husband Robby of Santa Clara; fourteen grandchildren, Crystal Escobar, Seraya Sifuentes, Anthony Moreno, Hilario Moreno, Isaac Moreno, David Moreno, Erica Moreno, Isaiah Cordova, Azael "Ozzy" Escobar, Aaliyah Cordova, Justice Escobar, Odessey Ramirez, Amariyah Ramirez, and Josiah Ramirez; six great grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense pride and joy; two brothers, Eddie Moreno and wife Carmen of Anthony, NM; Rudy Moreno of Belen, NM whose bond as brothers was unbreakable; brother in laws Fred Peralta, Johnny Peralta, Michael Peralta; sister in law Alicia Moreno; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins who will forever cherish his memory. He was preceded in death by his parents, Anita and Manuel Moreno; one grandson, Alejandro "Lil" Alex Escobar; two brothers, Hilario and Ruben Moreno; one sister, Genevieve "Veva" Silva.
Arnold will be remembered for his warm smile, steady presence, and unwavering love for his family. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched and the family he held so dear. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.
Visitation will be Tuesday, January 27th from 5-6pm at Terrazas Funeral Chapels with the holy rosary being recited by Father Lawrence of Our Lady of Guadalupe Monastery. The funeral mass will be Wednesday, January 28th at 10am at Terrazas Funeral Chapels with Father Matthew officiating. Concluding service interment will take place at Hurley cemetery. Pallbearers are Anthony Moreno, Hilario Moreno, Isaac Moreno, David Moreno, Isaiah Cordova, and Azael "Ozzy" Escobar. Honorary pallbearers will be Josiah Ramirez and granddaughters.
Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels "Trusted care for the ones you love" ~ 575-537-0777. To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com.
