Blas B. "Rocky" Leyba Jr., a man of unwavering faith, entered into the presence of the Lord on April 3, 2025 surrounded by his loving family.

Born on May 1, 1947, to Librada Bautista and Blas Leyba, Rocky grew up in Deming, New Mexico where his strong roots in family and faith were first planted. He proudly served his community and his country, serving honorably in the U.S. Army National Guard for 13 years and working at the New Mexico State Highway and Transportation Department for over 31 years until his retirement in 1999.  He was very fond of baseball and softball and will be remembered for playing in the Men's Fastpitch Softball League in Deming, and for his many years coaching local Little League Baseball teams – instilling sportsmanship and integrity.

Rocky was a devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. He was best known for his warm heart, his faith in God, and the deep love he had for his family—always available to offer guidance, encouragement and a strong shoulder to lean on while sharing great stories to instill his wisdom.  He was the first one to offer help and support—as well as a "swift kick" when necessary.

He was a loving father to Michael (Norma) Leyba, Gary (Carolina) Leyba, Eric Leyba, Patricia (Rick) Leyba, Brenda (Chris) Gutierrez, Andy Jaramillo, and Diana (James) Cardenas. His grandchildren—Kristen, Rebekah, Nick, Henry, Kaici, Justine, Julissa, Tori, Niko, Brandon, Aaron, James Jr., Isabelle, Michael and Matthew were the light of his life. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren, Mason, Skyler and Noriko.

After raising his children, Rocky embraced a new chapter of life filled with love, laughter, and family. He and Gloria enjoyed their retirement years together in Las Cruces, New Mexico, surrounded by the people and memories that mattered most.   He loved attending school functions and sports activities for his grandchildren and especially enjoyed watching his grandsons play football. Rocky's favorite at-home hobbies included listening to rock and country music; watching music videos, western movies, college softball games and Little League World Series games.  On Sundays, he looked forward to fellowship, cowboy coffee and great band music leading up to worship at Dona Ana County Cowboy Church.

Rocky's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. He taught his children to walk in faith, to lead with love, and to stand with strength—and they carry his wisdom and spirit with them always. His legacy is one of faith, family, resilience, and unconditional love.

He will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Rocky is survived by the love of his life, his wife Gloria Leyba; sister Martina Marrufo, whom he cherished and lovingly called "Nana"; and brothers Sam Flores and Eddie Leyba.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Librada Bautista and Blas Leyba; sister Petra Leyba; and brothers Richard Leyba and Raul Leyba.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:00 Monday morning, April 28, 2025, at Dona Ana County Cowboy Church, 1600 S. Valley Dr. in Las Cruces. Concluding services and interment will follow at 2:00 pm at Mountain View Cemetery in Deming.  Pastor Bobby Rice will officiate.

Serving as pallbearers will be Michael Leyba, Gary Leyba, Eric Leyba, James Cardenas, Michael Jaramillo and Matthew Jaramillo.