Cornelia Archuleta

Cornelia Archuleta, a cherished soul born on December 16, 1942, in Clifton, Arizona, graced this world with her vibrant spirit until her passing on July 28, 2025, in Safford, Arizona. Known for her unwavering love and dedication to family, Cornelia’s legacy lies in the warmth she imparted to those she held dear.

An esteemed social worker, Cornelia devoted her life to helping others, embodying the very essence of compassion and care. With each interaction, she showcased her commitment to fostering connections, making an indelible mark in the lives of many. Yet, it was within the walls of her home where her heart truly flourished. Her family remembers her with profound affection, recalling how she poured love into every moment they shared. No gesture was too small, and her ability to make each family member feel valued was nothing short of extraordinary.

Everyone who knew her is familiar with her playful nature—often perceived as a roll of her eyes imbued with an affectionate sense of humor. Cornelia was a woman of many hobbies: camping under open skies, fishing in tranquil waters, traveling to new horizons, and cooking delectable meals that brought her family together. She was a nurturing caretaker, especially to her beloved cat Oreo, whom she doted on with a grandmotherly affection that only she could provide.

Cornelia was a proud graduate of Clifton High School, a milestone she cherished throughout her life. Her personal journey intertwined beautifully with that of her husband, Nick Archuleta, —one of her proudest accomplishments. Together they navigated through life, creating a familial tapestry rich with love and support. While Nick now rests in peace, his memory lingers in the hearts of Cornelia’s family, a reminder of the bond they shared.  Cornelia also joins her daughter Victoria, her parents Paula & Larry Lucero, her Grandmother Anita Medina, and 3 Grandchildren in eternal rest.

Cornelia is survived by her daughters Debbie (Frank) Martinez, Paula (Raul) Lujan, Pamela (Joe) Candelaria, Carla Lopez, Kathy Lopez, and step-children Nick, Richard, Marie, and Joe Archuleta—a testament to her enduring legacy as a mother. She leaves behind 14 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and a great-great granddaughter, each one a pearl in her cherished necklace of family. Her brothers, Alex and Gilbert (Carol) Lucero, remain as part of her life’s story, contributing to her rich tapestry of memories shared.

While they mourn her absence, her loving family finds solace in the profound love and lessons she imparted to them through the years. Cornelia's services will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Clifton, where friends and family will gather to honor her life. A Rosary will take place on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at 7 PM, followed by a Mass on Friday, August 1 at 2 PM, culminating in her burial at Sacred Heart Cemetery later that day.

As they bid farewell to a beloved matriarch, Cornelia Archuleta will be remembered for her generous spirit, her dedication to family, her tenderness, and an incomparable zest for life. Though she has departed from the physical world, her essence will forever resonate in the hearts of those privileged to know and love her. Rest in peace, dear Cornelia; you will be profoundly missed but never forgotten.

The family would like to thank Greenlee Health Department, and the nurses and aides in the ICU at Mount Graham Regional Hospital.  And a very special thank you to Terry Hardcastle for the care and love she showed our mother on a weekly basis.