Jimmie Ray Ahner

Jimmie Ray Ahner, 80, of Los Lunas, New Mexico, passed away on February 11, 2026.

Jim was born on September 20, 1945, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Helen Nicholas and Fay Ahner, and was the stepson of Jesse Nicolas, all of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his step-sister, Barbara Jones. From an early age, he developed the values that guided his life—faith, perseverance, and deep dedication to family.

On October 24, 1969, Jim married the love of his life, JoAnn Aragon, in Ramah, New Mexico. Their 56-year marriage was defined by devotion, partnership, and a shared commitment to building a home centered on love and steady support for their children and grandchildren.

During the 1970s, Jim owned and operated a body shop in Grants, New Mexico, where he earned a reputation for craftsmanship, honesty, and reliability. He later became an insurance adjuster, bringing fairness and sound judgment to his work until his retirement in 2007. Retirement did not slow him down—he stayed active tending his garden, cooking, caring for animals, and taking on projects, always improving whatever was in front of him. He had a great love for animals and took genuine joy in caring for them.

Family was the cornerstone of Jim's life. He was a constant and dependable presence, traveling countless miles to take his children to rodeos and 4-H judging competitions and never missing an opportunity to encourage them. He gave his time generously and took quiet pride in their efforts and achievements. His strength, humility, and kindness left a lasting mark on all who knew him.

He is survived by his devoted wife, JoAnn Ahner; his son, Casey Ahner (Cassidy); his daughters, Jenny Sullivan (Brian) and Debbie Thompson (Jimmy); his grandchildren, Cayle Ahner, Cohen Ahner, and Charli Thompson Rivera (Rene); and his step-siblings, James Nicolas, Dinky Nicolas, Joyce Crouch, Dorothy Wisdom, Sarah Nicolas Bussey, and Jeannie Barton.

Jim will be remembered for his integrity, his steady spirit, and the deep love he showed his family. Guided by faith, devoted to those he loved, and gentle in his care for animals, he leaves behind a legacy of quiet strength and enduring kindness. He will be dearly missed and always remembered.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, February 27, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Belen Chapel, 2199 NM 304, Belen, New Mexico. Interment will follow at 2:”0 p.m. at Santa Fe National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please serve your community by volunteering time, making donations, or performing acts of service.

Arrangements are being handled by the caring professionals at the Noblin Funeral Service, Los Lunas, where an online guest register is available at www.noblin.com 

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