JOE BRIONES ORDUNEZ, age 78, a lifelong resident of Las Cruces, entered eternal life on Monday, August 10, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born February 15, 1948, to Juana Briones and Angel Ordunez, Joe grew up rooted in faith, family, and the traditions of his community.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great‑grandfather, uncle, and dear friend, Joe lived his life with generosity, humility, and a quiet strength that touched everyone who knew him. He was a faithful member of San Jose de Picacho Catholic Church, where he found purpose, comfort, and community throughout his life.

In 1968, Joe married the love of his life, Dolores Sanchez, and together they built a beautiful family filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Joe is survived by their six children: J.D. Ordunez (Brianna Lucero) of Las Cruces; Diana Ordunez of Fairacres; Jo Anna Pinela (Aurelio) of Santa Fe; Ida Martinez (Ernie) and Lupe Ordunez all from Las Cruces; and Rosario Gonzalez (Antonio) of Oklahoma. He is also survived by his sister, Susie Montes (Rogelio) of Anthony, Texas; 13 grandchildren; 8 great‑grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews who will forever cherish his memory.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Gilbert Sanchez and Gilbert Ordunez; three sisters, Aurora Ordunez, Margie Pacheco, and Mikeal Pacheco; his granddaughter, Cassandra Ordunez; and a grandson, Joshua Martinez; as well as his in-laws, Max and Nelly Sanchez.

Visitation will begin at 9 AM on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at St. Joseph Mission, 3135 Old Picacho Road in Fairacres. Recitation of the Holy Rosary will be held at 10 AM, followed by the Funeral Mass. At Joe’s request, cremation will take place, and Inurnment of cremains will be held at a later date.

Serving as casket bearers will be Matthew Lara, Abraham Ordunez, Martin Tangaro, Alejandro Pinela, Bishop Sheridan, and Isreal Gonzalez. Honorary bearers include Angel Gonzalez, Estephan Gonzalez, Mino Gonzalez, J.D. Ordunez, Dream’e Sheridan McCoy, and Brianna Ordunez.

Joe will be remembered for his deep love for his family, his steadfast faith, and the gentle way he carried himself through the world. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

Service arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Baca’s Funeral Chapel of Las Cruces and Sunset Crematory, 300 E. Boutz Road, 527-2222. Your exclusive provider for “Veterans and Family Memorial Care.” For online condolences logon to www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com