GALLUP, NM – The family of WWII veteran, US Army PFC Earnest C. Becenti Sr. are humbly requesting a funeral escort on Wednesday August 19, 2020 from Rollies Mortuary, Gallup, NM to Gallup State Veterans Cemetery.
STAGING: 9:00am Rollies Mortuary, Gallup, NM
KSU: 9:30am
DESTINATION: Gallup State Veterans Cemetery
ROUTE: go down Nizhoni west…turn north at stop lite then go south then hit stop lite n turn East on to Boardman passing UNM college heading East. Then pass Miyamura HS then turn left at light on Hwy 66, head west on Hwy 66 to Miyamura overpass. This is the route preferred by County Sheriffs Dept.
Gravesite services will be conducted. Immediate family only at gravesite. Thereafter, visitors may pay their respect immediately following services will be conducted in accordance with CDC and Navajo Nation Covid-19 guidelines to protect friends and family. Your understanding and cooperation is appreciated.
Becenti served two years in US Army from 1943 – 1945 during WWII.
Becenti was born March 9, 1925 in Hardground Flats near Church Rock, NM. His clans were Todich’ii’nii and Naasht’ezhi Dine’e.
He enlisted in the Army at the age of 18. After serving, Becenti earned a Purple Heart. He worked for the BIA as a Warehouse Supervisor for 38 years. He had many community accomplishments during his great life. He served as Church Rock Chapter President for 23 years. He was involved with Eastern Agency Council as president for 23 years. He was a member of the McKinley County School board for 27 years; McKinley County Commissioner for 16 years; New Mexico Mounted Patrol for 14 years; and a Traditional Navajo Medicine Man for 56 years, also a member of the Navajo Medicine Man Association.
He married Mary C. Becenti on September 8, 1947 they were married for 69 years. They had 3 children, 8 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren. He loved drinking hot tea and watching his favorite football team, Denver Broncos. He strongly emphasized to the youth to practice your Navajo traditions and beliefs. He also stressed the importance of being educated to be successful in life.
On behalf of the Navajo Hopi Honor Riders, we send our condolences and prayers to the family of WWII veteran, US Army PFC Earnest C. Becenti Sr. We thank you for your service, you will never be forgotten.
Contact: Melissa Becenti (granddaughter)
mjbecenti@yahoo.com