Louis T. Montoya Jr. departed from this life surrounded by family on Monday, April 6, 2026, at the remarkable age of 82.

Born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, on June 5, 1943, to Louis and Alice Montoya, He spent his early adult life in California before returning to the Land of Enchantment in the 1980s. He went on to build a successful business. His true passion was art, and Louis was an exceptionally gifted artist. He was blessed with the extraordinary ability to transform the ordinary into masterpieces.

A seasoned traveler and aficionado of local cuisine, Louis delighted in discovering hidden gems, especially the best green chili cheeseburgers. He cherished moments spent with loved ones, often indulging in dinner nights and movie evenings with family. Endowed with quick wit and infectious humor, Louis could always be counted on to brighten the lives of those around him.

Louis was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Alice Montoya; sisters Betty Weil and Gladys Schilling; brother Kenneth Montoya; and grandson Michael Montoya Jr.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and art, survived by his children Michael (Sherry) Montoya Sr., Sonnita (Joseph) Baird, Theresa (John) Payne, James (Michelle) Montoya, and Yolanda Townsley; his sisters Yvonne Moore, Barbara Montoya, and Cynthia Rydzynski; and brother Russell Montoya, as well as eight grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Louis was deeply loved and will be missed just the same.

A graveside service will be held in Louis' honor at Vista Verde Memorial Park in Rio Rancho, NM, on Tuesday, April 28, at 1:00 p.m.