Jovita "Jo" Deann Sandoval

Jovita Deann Sandoval, lovingly known to all as “Jo,” went home to be with our Lord on April 22, 2026, surrounded by the love and legacy she leaves behind. She was born on September 19, 1974, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, to her parents, Beatrice and Johnny J. Leyba.Jo was raised in Gallup, New Mexico, where she attended Indian Hills Elementary, Kennedy Middle School, and graduated from Gallup High School in 1993. Gallup remained close to her heart, as it was the place where many of her cherished memories and lifelong friendships were formed.On August 19, 2000, Jo married the love of her life, Paul “Danny” Sandoval. Together, they built a life grounded in love, faith, and family.Jo dedicated much of her working life to serving others. She was employed with Safe Ride, Sandia Ride, and Genesis Healthcare, where her compassion and kindness touched many lives.She had a joyful spirit and found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. Jo loved spending time with her family, friends, and her many beloved pets. She had a special love for all things Mickey Mouse, enjoyed building Lego sets, and took great pride in cheering on her great-nieces in all of their activities. Her faith was an important part of her life, and she cherished fellowship with her church family. Jo was a devoted member of Newsoul Church, where she participated in the Soul Sisters small group and served at the Connection Desk, always welcoming others with warmth and kindness.Jo is preceded in death by her beloved parents, Johnny J. Leyba and Beatrice Leyba; her maternal grandparents, Lino and Rachel Griego; her paternal grandparents, Manuel and Prudencia “Lillian” Leyba; her uncles, Narciso Baca Jr., Joe Baca, Tom Griego, Louie Leyba, David Leyba Sr., and Anthony Leyba Sr.; her aunts, Marie “Toni” Baca, Ida Baca, Rita Leyba, and Charlotte Leyba; her cousin, Narciso Baca III; and her godson, Brandon Deweese.She is lovingly survived by her devoted husband, Paul “Danny” Sandoval of Albuquerque, New Mexico; her cherished daughter, Jade Hope Sandoval; her sister, Jackie D’Ambrosio; her uncle, Mark Griego; her aunts, Debbie Soto and Maria Rios; her godmother, Dorothy Leyba; her goddaughter, Jarrica Madrid; her father- and mother-in-law, Esquipula and Manuelita Sandoval; and her beloved pets, S’more, Apollo, Rolo, Trinity, Olaf, Po, Daisy, Chip, Oreo, Buddy, Tootsie Roll, Jellybean, Yum-Yum Kitty, and Boo-Boo. She also leaves behind a large and loving extended family who will continue to honor her memory.Jo will be remembered for her warmth, her strength, and the deep love she had for her family, friends, and all who were blessed to know her. Her presence brought comfort, laughter, and joy, and her memory will forever live on in the hearts of those she touched.A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Cabezon Community Center, 2307 Cabezon Blvd SE, Rio Rancho, New Mexico 87124.