Joe Ray Anaya

Joe Ray Anaya, 73, born March 19, 1953 in Roswell, NM passed away comfortably with his family by his side on June 14, 2026. Please take a moment to share a kind thought or memory with Joe’s family at www.andersonbethany.com. A Viewing will be held at Anderson Bethany Funeral Home & Crematory on Friday, June 26, 2026. from 10:00 am. to 12:00 pm. and the funeral service at 12:00 pm with Interment to follow at South Park Cemetery. Followed by a gathering of food and friends at American Legion Post 28 located at 1620 N. Montana. On March 19, 1953, Joe was born to Lauterio Anaya and Marie Rodriguez in Roswell, NM. He left behind a legacy of craftsmanship and joy. As a skilled builder, welder, and roofer, Joe made his mark on the community with his hands, but it was his heart that touched the most lives. He also worked with Nova Bus, and his final job before retiring was roofing with 5-C Construction. After retiring, Joe found joy in volunteering his time at St. Peter’s Church, giving back to the community he loved. He proudly served in the U.S. Army, and his devotion to his country was reflected in the importance he placed on exercising his right to vote. He possessed a rare gift for bringing laughter to any situation, especially when others needed it most. His humor was a light in the dark. He always wanted to take care of everyone—making sure you ate, or simply being there when you needed him. “Just a phone call away,” he’d say. Joe had many friends and was very sociable, making his rounds every day to visit. He loved watching his favorite TV shows like Bonanza and Little House on the Prairie, making his daily trips to Albertson’s, and going to the junkyard with Robert O. He really enjoyed being around his grandchildren when they’d come to visit, going to their sports games, and being involved in their lives. He was proud of his family and made sure we all knew he loved us. He enjoyed discussing politics, taking his friend Ernestine lunch every day—often the highlight of her day—and watching football games with friends while betting on squares. He loved riding around town on any wheels he could get his hands on, zooming around on his scooter, and enjoying life with a smile on his handsome face. Those left to eternally treasure and cherish memories of Joe are his daughters: Amanda Cleverly (Josh Cleverly) and Alexandria Anaya; grandchildren: Nevaeh Nevarez, Emmanuel Anaya, Shyenne Melendez, Jasmine Primera, Nicholas Primera; step-daughter, Donna Gutierrez and family; siblings: Helen Gallegos, Rudy Anaya, Judy Rodriguez; nieces and nephews: Connie Empie of Arizona, Robert Valadez of California, Richard Valadez of New Mexico, Steve Valadez of Nevada, Michael Romo of New Mexico, Monica Dominguez of New Mexico, Ronnie Castillo of New Mexico, Gabriel Anaya of New Mexico, Larry Anaya of New Mexico, Yolanda Oliver of Florida, Maziah Price of New Mexico, Christopher Chavez of New Mexico, Emanuel Rodriguez-Garcia of California, Melanie Garcia of New Mexico, Javier Garcia of Tennessee; best friends: Frank, Robert, Mike, MaryLou and many many more; and beloved Chihuahua, Camila. Joe is preceded in death by his parents: Lauterio and Marie; grandparents: Ignacio and Lola Rodriguez; siblings: Nora Stiggans, Clifford Anaya, Jr. Dominguez, Francisco and Gabriel Anaya; beloved Labrador, Colby. Honorary pallbearers are Larry Anaya, Logan Price, and Mike Sandoval. Honored to serve as pallbearers are Emmanuel Anaya, Frank Gabaldon, Robert Ortiz, Chris Chavez, Mike Villa and Dacien Villa. The family of Joe wishes to make a sincere thanks to my Aunt Judy, cousins Melanie, Mariah, Serena, Rhonda, Frank M, Mary Ann from Hospice, Nadia from Anderson Bethany, Neveah, Raymond, Manny, Elsa, Bre Cobos, and Amanda’s Albertsons coworkers. Joe’s family Suggests Donations in lieu of flowers be donated to Anderson Bethany funeral Home or food at the gathering. Joe’s Tribute was written in honor by his family who will truly miss him.

Joe Ray Anaya

March 19, 1953 - June 14, 2026