Manuel Palma

Manuel C. Palma Manuel Palma, Sr. passed away on Wednesday, October 25, 2023, surrounded by his daughters, Mary Palma Sanchez, Alice Palma-Armendariz and Cordelia Robledo lovingly praying that God take him home to Heaven. Please take a moment and share a kind thought or memory with Manuel’s family at www.andersonbethany.com. Services will be held in Fort Sumner, NM at First Baptist Church, 509 N Sixth St at 10:00 am on Friday, November 17, 2023 with Dr. Joe Bunce (Brother Joe) performing funeral services. On September 12, 1945, Manuel was born to Celso and Isabel Palma in Candelaria, Texas. He was a mechanic by trade and went to trade school in Kansas City, Kansas to learn his trade. However, Manuel was best known as one of Ft. Sumner’s best fishermen. Manuel was often seen fishing at Sumner Lake or the nearby rivers with his wife Polly at his side. His prize catches were fish the size of “arms wide open.” He moved to Ft. Sumner about 45 years or so ago just so he could go fishing as often as he liked. The local newspaper got wind of his skill and he was featured in the newspaper a time or two. He will be missed by family, friends, and his community of Ft. Sumner which he loved so much. At time of passing, he was married to Pauline (Polly) Palma. Manuel leaves behind a legacy of several children and grandchildren. With his previous marriage to Marcelina Briseno Palma were born to them: Mary Briseno Sanchez, Alice Palma-Armendariz, (Max), Nicholas Palma (Rosa), Gerald Palma, (Nicole) and Vida Palma. From his loving relationship with Mary Lou Morales were born to them: Julia Palma, Manuel Palma, Jr., Cordelia Robledo (Carlos), Dora Palma, Andy Palma, (Elizabeth). Also, Gary Palma, son and Elizabeth Palma, Daughter whom he had with Carolina Munoz. Manuel is survived by 38` grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren. Manuel had a special relationship with Emilio (Milo) Hernandez, Grandson, who sought after and cherished the relationship that he had with his grandfather. Milo will carry on the legacy and love of fishing in honor of his grandfather. When he catches “the big fish” he will know Grandpa is watching over him and clapping for joy. Manuel is also survived by Lydia Robles (sister) and Esmida Orona (sister). Cousins who were raised with him as sisters. He will be dearly missed by family and friends. Preceded in death are 2 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren and 1 great-granddaugter who were there as loving Angels to welcome him home as he entered heaven. Also preceded in death are his parents, Celso and Isabel Palma, brothers, Chon Orosco, Rafael Orosco, Trine Palma and Pete Palma. In addition, sisters Tecla Palma, Angelita Lopez and Isabel Orona. The family of Manuel Palma would like to extend sincere thanks to Sunset Villa Care Center and Gentiva Hospice for the care provided to him following his short illness. The family would also like to thank 1st Baptist Church of Ft. Sumner for the years of ministry and assistance they provided to Manuel and Polly. God grant that I may live to fish until my dying day. And when it comes to my last cast, I then must humbly pray; When in the Lord’s safe landing net I’m peacefully asleep. That in his mercy I be judged as good enough to keep. Manuel’s tribute was written in his honor by Alice Palma-Armendariz, daughter.

Manuel Palma

September 12, 1945 - October 25, 2023