J. Placido Garcia

Garcia, J. Placido 88, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 20, 2011 at his home in Socorro surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Velarde, New Mexico on February 15, 1923, to J.O. and Emiliana (Velarde) Garcia. Placido was the youngest of seven children. He was a proud veteran and served in WWII with the United States Navy. He was a Commanding Officer of the Atlantic and the Pacific Oceans from 1943 until 1946. He was the youngest Naval Officer to hold this honor. Placido was a graduate of The University of New Mexico. He then furthered his education and received his Masters degree at Highlands University and also attended Columbia University. He served as Superintendent of the Rio Arriba County Schools for four years prior to moving to Socorro in 1957 and becoming Superintendent of the Socorro Consolidated Schools for 23 years. During this time, Placido was the probably youngest man ever to be elected superintendent, at the age of 29. He was the longest tenured Superintendent in the State of New Mexico, as he held the title of Dean of Superintendents. Placido served as an officer with various professional organizations throughout his life. He was a longtime member of the State Educational Retirement Board. He was an owner and partner along with his father and brother of the Trementina Cattle Ranch. Placido was an avid Lady Warrior Basketball Fan for many years. He was a devoted member of San Miguel Catholic Church and was a very giving man, supporting needs of children and also the Socorro community. Placido loved and adored his wife, his children, his grandchildren, and his entire family. He touched the lives of many people and was a mentor with family values always at heart, instilling in his children, a love of education and service. He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved son, J. Patrick Garcia, and his six brothers and sisters. Placido is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Adeline (Jaramillo) Garcia, married on January 3, 1945; his devoted children, J. Placido Garcia Jr. and wife, Munira; Joseph P. Garcia and wife Tina; and Mary E Garcia; his daughter-in-law, Carol Garcia, seven loving grandchildren, Carla Jo Garcia; Michael Louis Garcia and wife, Marissa; Muna Melvin and husband, Chad; J. Placido Garcia IV; Jacqueline Garcia; Jason Garcia and wife, Jodie; and Sara Friberg; seven great grandchildren, Jordan Garcia; Justin Garcia; Jared Garcia; Jaiden Garcia; CJ Melvin; Zac Melvin; and Jake Garcia; and many nieces, nephews, and other loving family members. A Eulogy will be read on Tuesday, December 27, 2011 at the San Miguel Catholic Church at 10:45 am followed by a Rosary which will recited at 11:00 am. A Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated at 11:30 am with Father Andrew Pavlak as Celebrant. Interment will take place at the Santa Fe National Cemetery on Wednesday, December 28, 2011 at 3:00 pm. Pallbearers will be J. Placido Garcia Jr., Joseph P. Garcia, Michael Louis Garcia, J. Placido Garcia IV, Jason Garcia, and Jordan Garcia. Honorary Pallbearers are Raul and Lala Grajeda, who faithfully delivered communion to the family home. Also the family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to Socorro Home Healthcare and especially to Hortencia Acosta and Myriam Moya, who provided exceptional care to our beloved Placido, Your kindness will always be remembered. In lieu of flowers, donations and memorial contributions may be given in Placido's honor to the San Miguel Catholic Church - Building Fund, 403 El Camino Real NW, Socorro, New Mexico 87801 or the Alzheimer's Association, PO Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011. Placido's care has been entrusted to:
Daniels Family Funeral Services
309 Garfield St
Socorro, New Mexico, 87801
575-835-1530