Priscilla Aragon Gonzales honored at Valley Gardens Park

The City of Albuquerque laid the first of what will be many bricks inscribed with the names of South Valley residents to kick off a new project honoring people of the neighborhood through Mayor Tim Keller’s Stories of Us initiative.

The first honoree is Priscilla Aragon Gonzales, a longtime South Valley resident whose story reflects the dedicated, family-oriented spirit of New Mexico. Family, friends, and community members gathered at Valley Gardens Park for the event.

“New Mexicans, especially those in the South Valley, are hard-working, faithful, green-chile-cooking, family-loving people,” said Gonzales’ daughter Eva. “My mother was the epitome of this region. This truly is an incredible honor for her and for our entire family, and we are deeply grateful to the City for this meaningful dedication.”

“Priscilla represented what it means to be from the South Valley: devoted and generous,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “With these memorials, we’re ensuring her story and the stories of others like her live on.”

Along with the brick placement, a “South Valley Community” sign was also installed at the park acknowledging the generations of families that helped make the South Valley what it is today.

“Parks should reflect their community,” said Parks and Recreation Director, Dave Simon. “This project is a great way to honor a life well lived and reflect the beauty and spirit of the South Valley.”

If you know a resident of the South Valley or elsewhere in the City whose story deserves recognition, please submit their name for consideration.