Jose E. Camacho (Joe)
Jose E. Camacho (Joe), of Albuquerque, New Mexico, died on May 9, 2026, after a period of declining health.
He was born on December 25, 1949, in Caguas, Puerto Rico, and later moved to the Bronx, New York. Joe was a talented gymnast who attended Long Island University in Brooklyn where he earned his bachelor's degree in Physical Education. He was a fierce competitor who loved the sport.
He later moved to Albuquerque and worked as P.E teacher for more than 30 years. His true passion was coaching gymnastics, and for over three decades he coached elite gymnasts at Albuquerque Gymnastics School. Joe was an avid fly fisherman who especially enjoyed fishing the San Juan River in northern New Mexico. He loved oldies, good coffee, the daily crossword, and the occasional jelly donut.
He is survived by his wife, Laurie Hardy; his children, Virginia Lillich, Jessica Camacho, Stefan Hardy, and Chelsea Hardy; and one grandchild. He is also survived by his brothers, Luis Camacho and Rene Camacho, as well as his nieces and his nephew.
We will miss him, his stories told many times over and the familiar sayings that were uniquely his.
A private service will be held by the family.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his name to The Willow Project at willowfdn.com