Joe E. "Jody" Montano

I'm on the top of the world lookin' down on creation

And the only explanation I can find

Is the love that I've found, ever since you've been around
Your love's put me at the top of the world 

The Carpenters

With beautiful and appropriate timing, “Top of the World” filled the room as Joe E. (Jody) Montaño, 77, of Albuquerque died peacefully on July 12, 2023.  During his final moments, he was surrounded by his loved ones who sang to him and held his hands as his favorite music played. During these past months of battling for his recovery to the moment of his passing, Jody felt the constant love and support of his family, who battled with him and never left his side. 

Jody was born in Anton Chico, NM on February 1, 1946 to Jose E. and Sophia B. Montaño. He grew up in Clovis, NM with his six brothers and sisters and attended Clovis High School.  Jody’s youthful and vibrant spirit was preserved through his love of music and movies, which he boldly shared when given the opportunity. From playing drums in a band, singing on stage with The Shirelles, taking second place in a Disco dance contest and quoting every line to his favorite movie, Tombstone, Jody found his moments while creating lasting memories.  His love of music and movies was equally matched by his love of food, specifically whatever he cooked.  His (famous) salsa, breakfast burritos and chile beans were favorites and became a household staple.  Jody frequently shared his cooking with friends and neighbors.  On any given day, rain or shine, dressed in signature cargo shorts and a tee-shirt, Jody could be seen making rounds in the neighborhood delivering his favorite dishes for no reason other than it just made him happy. An avid and life long Dallas Cowboys fan, win or lose, his love for “America’s Team” was unwavering.  

With all the happiness, friendships and moments in Jody’s life, it was the love of his family that he valued most.  He married his wife of 57 years, Patsy, on September 25, 1965.  Together they had three children Cindy, Michelle and Jason.  Jody’s strong work ethic was impactful and set the example of what hard work and sacrifice means, which resulted in moving his family to Albuquerque in 1980 where he worked until his retirement.  After retirement, he went on to enjoy his new gig - Grandfather.  If ever you wanted to see the biggest smile from Jody, just mention his only grandchild, Christian.  He gave advice, made jokes, sang, shared his love of art and drawing, taught how to punch, and enjoyed bragging, as only a grandfather could.  Jody’s extended family consisted of the people he impacted who saw him as a brother, father and mentor. His compassion for animals led to many dogs and a few cats he owned  or adopted over the years, including his latest rescue dog, Blanca.

Jody is survived by his wife Patsy, Daughter Cindy Montaño Turrieta and her husband Steven V. Cotton, Daughter Michelle Montaño Espinoza and her Fiancé Ian Smelser, Son Jason Montaño and his wife Lisa, Grandson Christian Espinoza, Brother Aurelio “Goldie” Montaño and his wife Connie, Brother Carlos Montaño and his wife Pam, Sister Rose Plaza and her husband Ray, and many beloved nephews and nieces. Jody was preceded in death by his Father and Mother Jose and Sophia Montaño, Sister and Brother-In-Law Sally and Reynaldo Romero, Brother and Sister-In-Law Dale and Marcy Montaño and Sister Patsy Montaño. 

A Celebration of Life will held  on September 1, 2023 with details to follow.