Noel Nuñez, 53, of Deming, New Mexico, passed away on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, in Deming. He was born on January 21, 1972, in El Paso, Texas to Ignacio Nuñez and Eluteria Rivas, and spent his life making a lasting impact on his community through his faith, teaching, leadership, and humor.
A proud graduate of Gadsden High School — Go Panthers! — Noel earned his Bachelor’s degree from Western New Mexico University and his Master’s degree from New Mexico State University. He began his teaching career in 1995 at Hofacket Mid High School, where his passion for education first took root. Over the next 25 years, he shared that passion at Hofacket Mid High, Deming High School, and Mimbres Valley High School, shaping generations of students. Most recently, Noel served as Director of Deming Cesar Chavez Charter High School, where his dedication to learning and mentorship continued to inspire both staff and students.
Beyond the classroom, Noel poured his energy into countless community activities. He coached wrestling, baseball, softball, and basketball, always bringing enthusiasm, encouragement, and heart to every team he led. He served as Country Club President, advocated for History Day, and was the ever-familiar voice behind so many local events. Many knew him as “the Voice of Deming”—the announcer for football games, basketball games, duck race pageants, and the annual Celebration of Life fundraiser. His energy, humor, and love for people filled every gathering.
Noel never knew how to say “no” to any engagement. His commitment to his students, community, and friends was unmatched. Whether announcing, coaching, volunteering, or simply lending a hand, he showed up fully and joyfully every single time.
A devout member of Holy Family Catholic Church, Noel lived his faith through service and example. He was a lector at Mass and was part of the Knights of Columbus, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and catechism programs. Often seen riding his bike to work, Noel embodied humility, gratitude, and dedication in all that he did.
For more than ten years, Noel ran a karaoke business known by his trademark humor as “The Worst KJ Ever.” He loved golf and softball, playing with Mojaxx, Tribe, Pumas, Who Cares, and Lazy Lizzards. He cheered with loyalty for his favorite teams: the Mets, the Bears, and his beloved Notre Dame. A proud metalhead, Noel loved rocking out to Iron Maiden, and his playlists were as bold and full of life as he was.
Above all, Noel was the best girl dad—a title he wore with endless pride and love. His daughters and grandchildren were his greatest joy, and everything he did was rooted in his devotion to family.
Known fondly as the unofficial “Mayor of Deming,” Noel’s warmth, humor, and generosity will forever echo through the classrooms, ballfields, and hearts of the community he served so well. He was the friend everyone could count on, the teacher everyone remembered, and the soul of every celebration.
Noel is survived by his loving wife, Cindy Nuñez; his daughters, Tiffany Bosse (Wil), Ashley Nuñez, and Desiree Nuñez; and his grandchildren, Adrean, Asher, Devon, Deyahnie, and one more grandchild on the way. He is also survived by seven siblings: Jose Nuñez, Ignacio (Felice) Nuñez Jr., Chris Nuñez, Emma (Felipe) Rosas, Maria (Pedro) Prieto, Irene Nuñez, and Elizabeth (Saul) Dueñas.
He was preceded in death by his parents and other beloved family members, including his sister Maria De La Luz Garcia; his in-laws Flavio and Maria “Rosa” Gonzales; a nephew, George Garcia Jr.; brother-in-law, George Garcia Sr.; and a niece, Maria C. Rodriguez.
A public viewing will be held on Friday, November 7, 2025, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Baca’s Funeral Chapel. Funeral services for Noel will be celebrated on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at Holy Family Catholic Church, with the holy rosary beginning at 12:30 p.m. and the memorial mass to follow at 1 p.m. Cremation has been entrusted to Baca’s Mimbres Crematory.
Noel’s warmth, humor, and service will forever echo through the halls of Deming’s schools, the bleachers of its fields, and the hearts of those who loved him. His was a life that truly embodied community.