Ralph Anthony Vigil

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Ralph Anthony Vigil, Jr., a loving son, father and brother, a respected farmer, and a pillar of our community.

Raised on the land he so dearly loved, Ralph was a steward of both soil and spirit. He dedicated his life farming, tending to the earth with reverence, and nurturing not just his crops but a legacy rooted in tradition, hard work, and respect. He had a deep connection to the Acequias, the ancient lifelines of water and culture, which he championed and protected throughout his life.

Ralph was more than a farmer - he was a voice for the voiceless, an advocate for our community, and a leader who brought people together. Whether he was working the fields or walking the halls of the State Capitol, his quiet wisdom, unwavering integrity, and fierce love for his people earned him the admiration of many.

He never sought recognition but it found him nonetheless - because when Ralph spoke, people listened. He believed in doing what was right, not what was easy, and he lived by that principle every day.

Above all, Ralph was a family man. His love for his family was the truest part of his being - steady, unconditional, and ever-present. He was a son, father, brother, uncle and friend whose presence will be deeply missed but forever cherished.

Ralph is survived by his parents, Ralph Vigil, Sr and Mary Carmen Vigil, his daughter, Kayla Vigil (Jose), his sister, Jenna Vigil, his niece and nephews and his beloved dogs Hunter and Jax. He is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Manuel Vigil, Sr. and Rosa B. Vigil, his maternal grandparents, Remigio Valencia and Carlota Valencia, his nino Carlos Valencia and other aunts and uncles.

As we say goodbye, we honor a man who gave everything he had to the land, his community, and his family. His hands may rest now but his spirit continues in every seed he planted, every drop of water that flows through the river and acequias, and every heart he touched.

A memorial service will be held on June 5th, 2025 from 5-7 at Santa Fe Funerals & Cremations. 

May his memory be a blessing and may his legacy live on in all of us.