Joni Juanita Montes
ALAMOGORDO, NM — Joni Juanita Montes, 55, passed away on April 7, 2026. She was
born on May 7, 1970, to William Albert Henry Montgomery Sr. and Irene Esther Montgomery.
Joni was known for her quirky personality, infectious sense of humor, and her signature
beautiful blonde hair. Growing up, she loved barrel racing and was actively involved in rodeos,
cheerleading, and beauty pageants—interests that reflected her bold spirit and love of life. She
had a funny and endearing belief that she was an “animal whisperer,” often attempting to tame
everything from stubborn dogs to wild horses—though, as her family fondly remembers, it
didn’t always go as planned. Joni also had a special talent in the kitchen, famously creating
“goulash” out of whatever she had on hand, somehow always turning it into something
delicious.
Above all, Joni was a loving mother. While she faced personal struggles throughout her life, her
love for her children remained constant, and they were always an important part of her heart.
She was preceded in death by her parents, William "Bill" and Irene Montgomery; her husband,
Jesus Alberto; and her brothers, William “John” Montgomery, Gordon Vaughn Montgomery,
and Ronald “Dondee” Lee Montgomery.
Joni is survived by her seven children: Samantha, Calvin, Willy, Deana, Kelly, Jessica, and
Jesus; her sisters, Ronda Russell and Tami Booth; and her brother, William “Billy” Albert
Montgomery Jr. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Irene, Vanessa, Josie, Levi, Logan,
Layla, Emma, Abigail, Jayden, Nicholas, Jaycee, Eli, and Valentina; her great-granddaughter, Sally; and many nieces
and nephews who will miss her dearly.
Joni will be remembered for her humor, her resilience, and the unique, unforgettable way she
showed love to those around her.