Angele

Rael

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our mom, Angele Rael on November 6, 2026.

She was born on January 19, 1938, in Casablanca, Morocco, Angie's life journey took her from North Africa to the United States, where she lived in New Jersey and New York before ultimately settling in Rio Rancho, New Mexico. She experienced tremendous changes and challenges throughout her life, meeting each chapter with determination, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to providing for those who depended on her.

Angie dedicated more than twenty years to Albuquerque Public Schools as a cafeteria worker and manager, beginning at Lincoln Middle School and finishing her career at Cibola High School. Known for her strong work ethic and reliability, she took pride in showing up every day and doing her job well. Retirement did not slow her down. She went on to spend several years working for the Rio Rancho Senior Center, helping prepare meals for seniors in the community.

Those who knew Angie knew she was not one to sugarcoat things. She believed in responsibility, accountability, and hard work. She worried about the people she loved, often carrying the burdens of others on her shoulders. While her concern sometimes came across as worry, it was rooted in a deep desire to see her family safe, successful, and prepared for life's challenges. Above all else, Angele was devoted to her family. She was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her home was a place where family gathered, stories were shared, and everyone was welcomed usually with something to eat.

Her children and grandchildren learned valuable lessons from her example. She taught them the importance of showing up, keeping your word, working hard, and taking responsibility for your actions. Those lessons have become part of her lasting legacy.

Mom was preceded in death by her husband, Severo Rael; her mother, Maria Perez; her father, Simon Di Piazza; her brother, Jacques; and her sister, Ginette.

She is survived by her sister Marie Therese Galiana, her daughter, Denise Bouyet & husband Rich; her sons, Ernie Bouyet, George Bouyet, Jacque Vigilante & wife Norma, and Ralph Vigilante & wife Stacey; nine grandchildren; and nineteen great-grandchildren.

Angie's life was defined not by grand gestures but by perseverance, sacrifice, and an unwavering sense of responsibility to her family. Though she will be missed, her influence lives on in the generations she helped shape through her example of hard work and determination.

Queen Elizibeth II said, “Grief is the price we pay for love…” Mom, you were loved and you will be deeply missed.

Funeral Services will be held on Monday, November 23, at 11:00 a.m. at Daniels Family Funeral Services – Southern Chapel, 2400 Southern Blvd. SE, Rio Rancho, NM.

Burial will follow at 2:00 p.m. at Santa Fe National Cemetery in Santa Fe, NM.