Gilberto Quintela

Gilberto D. Quintela, a proud veteran, born and raised in Loving, NM, a loving dedicated family man, and lifelong resident of Carlsbad, New Mexico, entered eternal life on January 15, 2026. Born on July 21, 1946, to Stevan Quintela and Guadalupe Duran, Gilberto lived a life defined by hard work, faith, and devotion to his family.

In 1965, Gilberto answered the call of duty by joining the United States Marine Corps. A brave veteran of the Vietnam War, he carried the values of honor and commitment with him throughout his life. Semper Fi.

Upon returning home, he built a distinguished career in the automotive industry. After he dedicated 26 years to the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company as a Service Manager he retired and later worked as a Master Mechanic for Phil Carrell Chevrolet and Ross Hyden Auto Superstore until his final retirement in 2011.

Gilberto’s greatest joy was his family. In November 1970, he married the love of his life Basilisa (Bessie) Corona, beginning a journey of over 55 beautiful years together. He was a pillar of strength for his children and took immense pride in watching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren grow. He was a man of integrity, he was loved and respected by many. He worked hard to support his family, and he passed his great work ethic onto his children. He was an amazing cook and loved to feed everyone who came to his home. He was a jack of all trades. He loved to joke around and loved to make everyone laugh, and will always be remember as a faithful, loving, and giving man who was always willing to help anyone in need. He has left his family with so many beautiful, wonderful memories and he will be deeply missed.

He is preceded in death by his parents Stevan Quintela and Guadalupe Duran Quintela, and his sisters: Carlota Flores, Juana Martinez, Lidia Gutierrez, Genoveva Chacon and her twin sister Julia Quntela, and Esperanza Lucero.

He is survived by spouse, Basilisa (Bessie) Quintela; children: son, Gilberto Quintela Jr.; daughter, Anna Vasquez and husband, Jody; and Lenny Lara, whom he considered a son. Grandchildren; Angelica Navarrette, Alondra Vasquez (Anthony), and Jose Vasquez IV (Cali), and Kiyler Quintela, GiAndrea Hernandez; great-grandchildren: Nicholas, Aryanna, Angelo, and Lillyanna Sandate, and his great-grandson due in April 2026; siblings: sister, Mary Aragon of Odessa TX, and brother, Steven Quintela (Inez) of Carlsbad NM, numerous nieces and nephews, and his loyal dog, Romo.

The Family would like to thank Enhabit Home Care & Hospice, Dr. Tijani and his team at UMC Cancer Center, Dora Ogas, Eddy County Sheriff’s Department and to everyone who prayed for him and with him throughout his journey.

Visitation will be from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Thursday, January 22, 2026 at Denton-Funeral Wood Funeral Home. A Rosary will be recited at 9:30 AM, Friday, January 23, 2026, followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM at San Jose Catholic Church with Fr. Juan Carlos Ramirez officiating. Cremation will take place after service. Graveside service is scheduled for 10:00 AM, Friday, January 30, 2026 at Santa Catarina Cemetery, Carlsbad, NM. Denton-Wood Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Pallbearers will be Jody Vasquez, Jose Vasquez IV, Angelica Navarrette, Alondra Vasquez, Nicholas Sandate, Antony Lara, Jacob Hinojos, and Albert Ramirez Jr. Honorary Pallbearers are Aryanna Sandate, Angelo Sandate Jr., Lillyanna Sandate, and Kiyler Quintela, & GiAndrea Hernandez