Raymond Bruce Valdez was born on March 15, 1988, in Durango, to Bruce Valdez and Julie Smith. Raymond was fondly known to his family and friends as Malo and Panda.

He graduated from Ignacio High School in 2006. Following high school, Raymond moved to Albuquerque, which became his home and the place where he built many lasting friendships and connections. He attended ITT Technical Institute, where he studied Psychology and Information Technology.

During his time in Albuquerque, Raymond worked at a collection agency and several other organizations before finding his favorite place of employment, where he served as a manager at a warehouse distribution center.

Raymond had a deep passion for music and loved attending concerts, DJing, mixing, and creating music. He was also a devoted fan of the Las Vegas Raiders. Raymond embraced life to the fullest and lived by the principles of Peace, Love, Unity, and Respect (PLUR), promoting a safe, inclusive, and positive environment for everyone. He was a proud member of the Candy Kids, the Lost and Found Crew, and the Deadmau5 Crew.

Among his favorite destinations were Las Vegas, Denver, and California, where he especially enjoyed attending Electric Daisy Carnival and performing hand-light shows.

Raymond entered the Spirit World on May 5, 2026, at the age of 38.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Shirley Esparza and Sylvia Valdez; his maternal grandparents, Irene Smith and James Smith; and numerous other beloved family members.

Raymond is survived by many loving family members in Ignacio, Colorado; Farmington; and Albuquerque, New Mexico; his two godchildren, Ninavea Rodriguez and Vicente Rodriguez; and his beloved son, Mr. Kitty.

A viewing will be held on May 15, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., followed by a Rosary at 9:30 a.m. and a Funeral Service at 10:00 a.m. at Church of the Incarnation Catholic Church, located at 2309 Monterrey Road NE, Rio Rancho, New Mexico 87144.