IDA SERNA PACHECO Sept. 7, 1927 – APRIL 4, 2024

It is with immense sorrow and broken hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved matriarch, Ida Serna Pacheco. Ida departed peacefully, surrounded by her loved ones on April 4th at the age of ninety-six. Her life was a radiant tapestry, intricately woven with threads of tradition, faith, wisdom, strength, and boundless love. Her infectious humor and playful nature brought laughter and joy to all who knew her.

Ida was born on September 7, 1927, in El Guache, New Mexico to the late Adan Serna and Onofre Salazar Serna. She was predeceased by her parents, her siblings Ninfa Serna, Eloisa Salazar (Max), Felix Serna (Rita), Aurelia Serna, Ruben Serna (Lorraine), Willie Serna, Eloy Serna, and her youngest son Raymond David Pacheco. The bond with her only surviving sibling, Angie Serna Martinez (Manuel) of Pojoaque is a cherished treasure.

Ida’s life journey led her from her family’s farm in a small northern New Mexico community of El Gauche where she grew up as a spirited tom boy, fearlessly playing with the boys, climbing trees and riding goats. Her playful nature earned her the nickname “changa” or monkey of the family. Her path led her to Los Alamos, New Mexico. Ida married after high school and moved to “The Hill” where her new husband worked for the Atomic Energy Commission.

Ida effortlessly merged her cherished family traditions from Northern New Mexico to her way of life in an emerging city of Los Alamos. Despite never pursuing higher education, her wisdom surpassed that of anyone. Ida stressed to her children the importance of building relationships with their relatives and friends. She was a walking encyclopedia of family trees and familial linage, meticulously preserving this invaluable history up to her last moments of clarity when she exhibited an astounding comprehension of families – grasping their connections and legacies.

Ida’s devotion to her family was unparalleled. She raised her six children, with a tireless work ethic that served as an inspiration to those who knew her. She was an amazing and fun-loving mother. Music always filled her home, from the sound of her harmonica to the 45 rpm records she spun on the turntable. She would often move the furniture in the living room to dance with her children.

Ida was always seeking entrepreneurial opportunities, fearless, adventurous, and venturing into diverse fields, from opening a small restaurant to buying, repairing, and selling cars. Ida engaged in various roles within the LA Public Schools always prioritizing her time to be available in her children’s lives. After her children were grown, she eventually assumed the role of District Manager for the ABQ Journal and the SF New Mexican in Los Alamos. She not only managed the entire operation, but also mentored numerous adolescents, providing them with invaluable training and instilling in them a strong work ethic. In this capacity she got to know the entire Los Alamos community on an even more personal level.

Ida was fearless and exceptionally courageous, a true fighter in every sense. Despite being diagnosed with colon cancer in 2000, which later metastasized to her lung, she refused to be deterred. Even when she contracted Covid twice, she sailed through it. Instead, she embraced life with unwavering determination to the end, filling her days with travel and was often caught tossing her walker in the backseat of her car and sneaking off to the Casino at 90mph.

Ida is survived by her loving children, whom she considered the joy of her life; Manuel, Johnny (Debbie), Helen Borrego (James), Vivan Harper (Dana), Marie Scorcia (Robert), as well as her grandchildren; Jason Pacheco (Brittany), Jessica Fine (Clinton), Kyla Pacheco (Michael), and Carmella Scorcia and her great-grandchildren Brison Fine and Mariah Fine. Her legacy extends to a fourth generation, Alonzo, her great-great grandchild. She is also survived by her sister in law, Joann Serna (Pojoaque). In addition to her biological family, Ida played a most significant role in raising another child, Lori Garrett Sanders (Steven) whom she loved as her own and regarded as a granddaughter.

She leaves behind numerous beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends making sure they knew they held a special place in her heart, never doubting her unwavering love for them.

Special recognition is due to her cousin, Rosa Rodriguez Kenny (Las Cruces, NM), and her niece, Diana Serna Lindahl (Westport, Connecticut) for their extraordinary and compassionate care. Additionally, acknowledgment is extended to her physician, Pema Tamang (MANNM/ Los Alamos) for providing excellent medical attention. Gratitude is owed to Jeannie Ford and Miriam Tarango for providing nursing support.

Remembrance of Ida Serna Pacheco, her enduring love, unwavering strength, and vibrant personality will be forever cherished. Her spirit will resonate in our hearts, weaving a legacy that will enrich our lives. May she rest in eternal peace, reunited with her family and her son – experiencing a joy beyond compare – and probably dancing in heaven.

Services will take place at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Los Alamos, New Mexico where she was a parishioner for over 70 years. The time and date are pending as we await the arrival of out-of-town guests and family.

Ida Serna Pacheco Sept. 7, 1927 – April 4, 2024. Courtesy photo