Funeral services for Manuel Utajara, 77, of Lovington, New Mexico will be held on Friday, March 8, 2024 at 10:00 am at St. Thomas Catholic Church with Father Samuel Ameh officiating. Burial will follow at Lovington cemetery. Manuel was born on February 9, 1947 in Ricardo Flores Magon, Chihuahua, Mexico to Eusebio and Ismaela (Proaño) Utajara and passed away peacefully surrounded by his immediate family on March 2, 2024 in Lubbock, Texas Manuel loved music and dancing. He like having family over and BBQ. Manuel enjoyed working at the ranch and working outside.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Eusebio and Ismaela Utajara; two brothers: Santiago Valenzuela and Eusebio Utajara Jr.; two sisters: Gregoria Castro and Manuela Perchez.

He is survived by his wife: Eduvijes Utajara of 53 years; one son: Jorge Utajara and wife Jessica; two daughters: Marisa and husband Tim Board, Maria and husband Gilbert Tapia; his siblings: Raul Utajara, Socorro Utajara, Martha Utajara, Mirna Utajara, Jesus Valenzuela, and Elifonzo Valenzuela; four grandsons: Noel Tapia, Brian Tapia, Pablo Aguilera and Adam Aguilera; two granddaughters: Daisy Tapia, Idaly and husband Alberto Alba; four bonus grandchildren: Justin Board, Branson Board, Caleb Salinas, and Abel Salinas; and two great-granddaughters: Mikaela Alba, and Maya Alba; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Viewing will be held on Thursday, March 7, 2024 from 2:00 pm until 8:00 pm. with a rosary at 6:00 pm at Kirby-Ratliff Funeral Home.

Condolences may be sent to www.kirbysmithrogers.com.