Richard L Tellez, 68 of Las Cruces, NM passed away on July 17, 2023, at St. Joseph's Hospital in Phoenix, Arizona.

Richard was born in Las Cruces, N.M. to Pablo and Genevieve Tellez. He served in the U.S Army during the Vietnam War. He was known by many as "Popo". Devoted to his family and those he held closest to him. Richard was one of the strongest men known to those who loved him. He was a teacher by nature and knowledgeable. There are not enough words in any language to describe everything he was to us. A true pillar of his family. He enjoyed many sports. Football being one of his favorites, Go Raiders! He loved his family, blood related or "adopted" in. He had an immense love of life and wanted everyone around him to share in that love.

Richard is survived by his devoted wife of 43 years, Natalia Tellez; daughters, Kimberly Tellez, and Cecilia Tellez (Ricardo); Honorary daughter, Desiree Lowe, Grandchildren, Memory Tellez, Antonio Colon, Briannah Tellez, Jazzmine Soto, David Arroyos, and Ricardo Valdez Jr. Along with honorary grandchildren, Laurissa Bertoldo and Kyle Ochoa. Sister-in-law, Dolores Tellez; brothers, Henry Tellez (Betty), Sammy Tellez (Dolores), and Manuel Montoya. As well as several other family members.

Proceeded in death by parents, Pablo Sr and Genevieve Tellez; brother Pablo Tellez Jr, and sister, Yolanda Montoya.

A viewing will be held Wednesday, August 2, 2023 starting at 9:30am at St. Genevieve's Catholic Church, 100 South Espina St. A prayer vigil will start thereafter at 10:30am with a Funeral Mass following. Military Honors will be conducted following the Funeral Mass.

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