Javier M Gonzales 1966-2022

Javier M. Gonzales, age 55, son of Santa Fe, helper of people, passed away peacefully in Santa Fe, New Mexico on February 9, 2022 surrounded by his family with music, stories and prayers after a valiant battle with cancer.

Born on August 1, 1966 in Santa Fe, New Mexico, he was one of four children. He is survived by his daughters Cameron and Cadence who were the love of his life, his mother Celina, brothers Estevan (Adi), Patricio (Karmella), nephews George Anthony, Joshua, Rico, Cisco, Adaiah, Asher and nieces Gianna, Miriah (Jeff) and Amarisa . He is preceded in death by his father George and his brother Anthony.

Javier graduated from Pojoaque High School, New Mexico State University and his love for education called him to later serve on the Board of Regents for New Mexico Highlands University and his alma mater NMSU.

The seed of community service was first sown by Javier’s parents when the family founded KSWV Que Suave radio in 1991. Javier learned from his father, “Porque un Pueblo bien informado es un Pueblo libre.” and “Hoy por ellos, mañana por nosotros.”

Javier was a transformative figure and had a special way of bringing people together. He loved the teachings of Jesus Christ whose beatitudes guided his focus to serve those who sought equality and justice, to care for the sick, the poor, the disenfranchised, the elderly and the needy.

He loved New Mexico’s beauty, traditions, arts & culture and worked to protect the environment, to bring economic development and high quality early childhood education and worked to increase civic engagement with the youth of Santa Fe.

Javier was elected twice as a Santa Fe County Commissioner and the first openly gay Mayor of Santa Fe. He was the youngest and first Hispanic to be elected as President of the National Association of Counties.

Javier had a beautiful voice, and ushered in Santa Fe’s new tradition of New Year’s Eve on the Plaza by singing Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah”.

His passion for helping people and unwavering dedication continued as he most recently served as the Vice President and Chief Development Officer of the St. Vincent Hospital Foundation where he was strongly committed to supporting and enhancing the work of the hospital.

His daughters gave his life purpose, passion and abundant love. They traveled the country and the world together. They also enjoyed daddy-daughter date nights, movie nights, singing and hiking. Javier found peace, relaxation and happiness riding his horses and team roping.

Javier’s personal memoir included, “Today let me show kindness, be light, be a leader, be productive, execute with wisdom and communicate clearly. Grateful for the gift of today. It’s not about me. It’s about God.”

The family would like to thank everyone at CHRISTUS St. Vincent Regional Medical Center, the CHRISTUS St. Vincent Cancer Center, the St. Vincent Hospital Foundation and Ambercare. All of the doctors, nurses, staff and board members were not only considered his colleagues, but also as members of his extended family.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, the Gonzales family asks for your kind consideration to make a donation to the St. Vincent Hospital Foundation as a way to honor Javier’s passion of helping people.

Due to Covid, a public memorial service will be held at a future day to be announced.