Carbajal, Richard A. "Dick," 1935-2025: A Life Sketch
Obituary: Remembering Richard A. "Dick" Carbajal, Beloved Albuquerque Resident
Bid farewell to Richard A. "Dick" Carbajal, a beloved figure in Albuquerque, who left us on June 18, 2025, at the age of 90. His life will be celebrated at Our Lady of Belen Catholic Church on July 10, with visitation starting at 9 a.m., followed by a Rosary and eulogy at 9:30 a.m., and a Funeral Mass at 10 a.m. On the following day, Friday, July 11, at 9:30 a.m., Dick will be laid to rest at Santa Fe National Cemetery.
Dick's life was marked by an abundance of love and loss. He was preceded in death by his dear wife, Lois F. "Lara" Wilson Carbajal; sons, Richard Jr. and Donnie; parents, Barney Sr. and Emily "Reina" Baca Carbajal; siblings, Barney Jr., Corinne and Ray. But his legacy lives on through his children, Francine, David, and Brian; grandchildren, BreAnna Grace, Dylan Justice, and Daniel Jacob; sister-in-law, Della Dancer; brother-in-law, Don Shea (Bonnie); life-long friends, Benny and Mary Ellen Hodges, and Rose Ellen Guillen; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Born on Cinco de Mayo in 1935, in Belen, Dick's life was a symphony of experiences. He was a gifted musician, excelling on the saxophone, and shared this passion with his beloved Lois "Lara" Wilson, whom he met at Highlands University in Las Vegas, N.M. Together, they performed throughout New Mexico, creating beautiful memories that would last a lifetime. Music was woven deeply into the Carbajal family.
In addition to his musical talents, Dick served his country honorably in the U.S. Army from 1955 to 1963. Post-military, he dedicated himself to civic duty, serving as a New Mexico state representative for Valencia County for eight years. He was a respected member of the "Mama Lucy Gang," a group of progressive lawmakers who played a significant role in shaping New Mexico's future.
Dick's commitment to education saw him serve on the Belen Board of Education for many years, and before that, he taught music as a band-leader in Socorro. His passion for music was equaled only by his love for football, for which he served as a member of the "chain gang" for Belen High School Eagles for numerous years. "Go Irish!"
If you had the pleasure of knowing Dick, you would know that he never missed an opportunity to cheer for his favorite team, whether on TV or in the stands. His joy was contagious, and he was thrilled to witness Belen High School Eagles making the college football championship playoffs in 2025.
The Carbajal family expresses their sincere gratitude to Dick's caregiver, Clara Ortega, and the compassionate staff at Good Life Senior Living and Amber Care of NM, particularly Amanda and Brittany.
Sign Dick's online tribute at romerofuneralhomenm.com. Romero Funeral Home, 609 N. Main St., Belen, will handle the arrangements.
For general questions or concerns, please email web@our website.
At various points in his life, Dick delved into diverse fields, showcasing his passion for music in performances alongside Lois "Lara" Wilson, serving in politics as a New Mexico state representative for Valencia County, and championing education as a member of the Belen Board of Education. Outside of public service, he remained an ardent sports enthusiast, supporting his favorite team, the Belen High School Eagles, who made the college football championship playoffs in 2025.
