Eli S. Lucero 74, a Bayard resident passed away Monday, March 10, 2014 at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Visitation was held Saturday March 15, 2014 at 1 O’clock in the afternoon at Baca’s Funeral Chapels. Funeral service to begin at 2 O’clock with Joel Fierro officiating. Concluding services and interment will follow at Memory Lane Cemetery.

Eli was born May 11, 1939 in Deming, NM to Jesusita S. Lucero. He was a member of the National Guard-Army and was a Pastor of the Apostolic Church. He worked at Kennecott-Chino Mines as a truck driver. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, playing chess and poker. Eli had a great sense of humor and liked to be a prankster and joking around with everyone. He loved basketball, his favorite team was the San Antonio Spurs. Eli loved to listen to all types of music and truly enjoyed gardening.

He is survived by his loving wife Josie of 43 years, son Eli Michael Lucero (Diana), Amy Valenzuela (Angel)and Yvonne Lucero; three sisters Mary Provencio (David), Ruth Huerta (Sam) and Elizabeth Fierro (Chon), brother-in-law Macedonio Garcia (Ida), sisters-in-law Anita Garcia, Helen L. Garcia and Hope Benavidez (Manny), four grandchildren Aliya and Alejandro Valenzuela, Michelle Lucero and Kaitlynn Gonzalez and numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his mother Jesusita Lucero and his in-laws Casamiro and Diego Garcia.

Serving as pallbearers were Angel Valenzuela, Eddie Garcia, Joel and Chon Fierro, Nick Benavidez, Lawrence Treviso.

Entrusted to the care of Baca’s Funeral Chapels. Exclusive provider for “Veterans & Family Memorial Care”. To sign the online guest book or to send a card, please visit our website at www.bacasfuneralchapels.com.