Juan David Saenz Jr., affectionately known to all as "Big John," a lifelong resident of Las Cruces, New Mexico, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones on August 7, 2026, at the age of 54.

Juan was born on September 30, 1971, in Las Cruces, John was the cherished firstborn son of Juan and Yolanda Saenz. He was a dedicated son, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, and friend whose boundless love and genuine kindness touched the lives of everyone who was fortunate enough to know him. John will forever be remembered as a kindhearted soul with a heart of gold. He always greeted you with a warm, genuine smile and was famous for giving the absolute best big hugs. An avid outdoorsman, John loved working in the yard and tending his animals. He was also known by all as a dedicated, true, and lifelong Raiders fan. In his early years, John worked for the Elephant Butte Irrigation District (EBID), where he loved cruising the ditches, irrigating, and listening to his favorite music. He later brought his hard work and passion to the City of Las Cruces Parks and Recreation Department, where he thoroughly enjoyed maintaining the local ball fields. Most recently, John worked for the Las Cruces Public Schools as a special education assistant. He absolutely loved his job, finding deep fulfillment in helping his students, protecting them, and forming lasting connections.

Those left to cherish his memory and mourn his passing include his parents, Juan and Yolanda Saenz; the mother of his children, Josie Saenz and partner Temo Martinez; his two sons, Juan David Saenz III and his wife, Valenzia, and Brandon Saenz and his partner, Maggie Baber; and his daughter, Denise Saenz and her partner, Ricardo Garay. He is also survived by his two beloved grandsons, Juan David Saenz IV and Jace Saenz. Holding his memory dear are his siblings, Gilbert Jacquez, Elisha King, and her husband Sam, Vanessa Renteria and her husband Joshua, and Monica Saenz; his sister-in-law, Caroline Saenz; his nieces, Stevi Saenz, Jennifer Saenz, and Azariah Renteria; his nephews, Christopher Saenz, Jeremiah Renteria, and Zechariah Renteria; and his godchildren, Anthony Banegas and Alexis Alvarez. John also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family members across various states who loved him dearly.

John was preceded in death by his grandparents, David and Lucia Saenz, and Enrique and Carmen Yañez; his beloved brother, James Saenz; and his cherished nephew, Joshua Joseph Renteria.

Though Big John will be deeply missed, his vibrant memory and the beautiful legacy of his faith, compassion, and unconditional love for others will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Thank you to the Memorial Medical Center ICU staff for the tender care and compassion you showed John—and our family—before his passing."

A memorial will be held on Friday, August 28, 2026, at 2pm at Baca’s Funeral Chapels, 300 East Boutz Road.

Service arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Baca’s Funeral Chapel and Sunset Crematory, 300 E. Boutz Road, 575-527-2222. Your exclusive provider for “Veterans and Family Memorial Care.” For online condolences log on to www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com