Alice Espinoza

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of longtime San Luis Valley resident Mary Alice Espinoza, who left this world on May 28, 2025, at the age of 86. Born on August 13, 1938, in Trinidad CO to Maria Juanita Martinez and Juan Bautista Salizar, adopted and raised at the age of 4 by her parents Cordelia & Willie Atencio, Alice lived a life rich in love, dedication, and service to others, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished by all who knew her. Alice graduated from Adams State University on May 7, 1982, with a degree in Elementary Education, a testament to her lifelong commitment to nurturing young minds. For over 30 years, she devoted her career as a Special Education and Migrant Teacher for the North and South Conejos School Districts as well as committing time to Conejos County Home Health. Her passion for education extended beyond the classroom, as she also contributed her time and talents to the Conejos County Library and Noah's Arc, always striving to help children succeed and flourish. A gifted poet, Alice had her works published in the Famous Poets Society in 1995 and 1997, showcasing her love for words and the beauty of expression. Her creative spirit was further reflected in her hobbies, which included quilting, sewing, painting, reading, and gardening. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life, often spending her evenings watching westerns, a testament to her love for storytelling and adventure. Alice was not only a dedicated educator but also a devoted grandmother who cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren. She took immense joy in babysitting them, spending countless hours outside playing sports, and proudly claimed credit for their athletic abilities. Alice was their number one fan, cheering enthusiastically at her son and grandsons' mudbogging events, where her spirit and support shone brightly. Alice was preceded in death by her birth parents, Juan Bautista Salazar and Maria Juanita Martinez; her parents, Willie (Cordelia) Atencio; her twin sister, Luci Atencio; her brothers, John (Lee) Atencio and Willie Jr. (Mercy) Atencio; her grandson, Valentin Espinoza Jr.; her in-laws, Valentin (Francis) Espinoza; and her son-in-law, Jessie Martinez. She is survived by her beloved husband of 68 years, Robert Espinoza, and her cherished children, Valentin (Debbie) Espinoza, Cordy (Ricky) Lujan, Roberta (David) Madril, and Lisa Martinez, and brother Joe Albert Salazar. Alice’s legacy continues through her grandchildren, Chrystal, Ben, David, Brian, Robert, Michael, Janel, Jordan, Tiffany, and Jessie Jr., as well as her 17 great-grandchildren and her beloved dogs, Trixie and Fiona. Cremation was chosen by the family, and services will be chosen at a later date. As we remember Mary Alice Espinoza, we honor her unwavering spirit, her love for her family, and her dedication to helping others. She will be deeply missed but will forever remain in our hearts, inspiring us to carry forward her legacy of kindness, creativity, and compassion.

Alice Espinoza

August 13, 1938 - May 28, 2025