Arturo Ornelas

Arturo Rodriguez Ornelas, 79, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 16, 2024, in Lubbock Tx, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on September 7, 1945, in Delicias, Chih, Mexico, to Alberto and Josefina Ornelas. He married Elodia Ornelas on November 19, 2009, in Roswell, NM. He worked as a welder for Nova Bus. Arturo was an avid gardener who enjoyed being outdoors. He had a passion for entertaining and cooking for his family and friends, and he never met a stranger. He loved to help anyone out and would give the shirt off his back to anyone. Arturo had a unique gift for making everyone smile with his corny jokes. His deepest joys were music, singing, and spending time with his family.

He was preceded in death by his mother and father; brothers Alfredo Ornelas, Carlos Ornelas; and sister Guadalupe Ornelas. 

Those left behind to cherish his memory are wife, Elodia, his sons: Paul Espinoza (Joanna), Richard Espinoza (Toni), Lorenzo Sanchez (Senida), Arthur Ornelas Jr. (Monica), Roberto Ruiz, Mauro Ruiz (Mayra), Angel Ruiz, and David Ruiz; daughters: Rose Barrientos (Tomas), Gracie Garcia (Jimmy), Cynthia Ornelas (Miguel); 29 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers: Alberto Ornelas (Patricia), Lorenzo Ornelas (Lupita); sister: Esperanza Hernandez, many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Pallbearers: Richard Espinoza, Lorenzo Sanchez, Arthur Ornelas, Mauro Ruiz, Jimmy Garcia and Miguel Feliciano. 

Honorary Pallbearers: Paul Espinoza, Tomas Barrientos, Angel Ruiz, and David Ruiz.

The family would like to show appreciation to University Medical Center Neuro ICU nursing staff, Joey Stone, NP and a very special thank you to Dr. Phillips for your exceptional care and the grace you showed and extended to our dad and our family.

A visitation will take place at Ballard Funeral Home in Roswell, NM on September 22, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, followed by a Rosary from 6:00 - 7:00 pm. A Celebration of life will be held at St. John's Catholic Church on Monday, September 23, 2024, at 10:00 am. A meal will be served after the services at the Roswell Adult Center located at 807 North Missouri, Roswell, New Mexico.

The family kindly requests that you wear bright clothing to the services, as Arturo preferred vibrant colors and was not fond of dark ones.

As we reflect upon the life of this extraordinary man, we are reminded to cherish our connections, extend kindness to others, and embrace the laughter that lights our days—elements that Arturo embodied with grace and joy. His legacy will continue to grow, much like the gardens he so lovingly nurtured, inspiring all of us to cultivate warmth and generosity in our own lives.