With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for her long and loving life, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Dora (Chavez) Gallegos, who left this world peacefully on Feb. 27, 2026.
Dora was born August 5, 1931, in Winslow, the fourth child of Benito and Domotilda (Montoya) Chavez. She grew up in the Southside neighborhood, where she attended school and helped her close-knit family. In time, she met the love of her life, “My Larry,” and the two were married on Jan. 5, 1948. One of Dora’s proudest memories was helping make the adobe bricks used to build the home where she and Larry raised their family.
A woman of deep faith, Dora was a devoted member of Madre De Dios Catholic Church in Coopertown. For many years, she lovingly cared for the priests’ vestments, altar cloths and many other responsibilities that supported the life of the parish. She worked hard throughout her life, including at the Winslow laundry, as a meat wrapper and as a motel housekeeper. Dora loved to play bingo and enjoyed occasional visits to casinos to play the slot machines.
Dora found joy in simple, meaningful things—crocheting blankets for her children, grandchildren and friends, and tending to the flowers and plants that filled her yard. She will be remembered for her devotion to her church, her unwavering love for her four children, seven grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and the great-great-granddaughter soon to arrive. She cherished her siblings and her extended family of nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Larry G. Gallegos; son, Stevie; grandson, Brian Bruner; parents, Benito and Domotilda Chavez; sisters, Rose Chavez and Modie Hernandez; and brothers, Margarito and Ralph.
She is survived by her son, Henry; daughters, Linda Bruner (Tom) and Donna Hernandez; six grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; a great-great granddaughter on the way; and her brother, Sal (Terry) Chavez of McNary.
Funeral services will be held at 9:30 a.m. and Mass at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 7, at Madre De Dios Church in Winslow, with Rosary followed by interment at Desert View Cemetery.
