Frank Paul Tabet

1954-2026 Frank Paul Tabet, age 71, a lifelong resident of Belen, passed away on April 21, 2026. As the eldest of 6 kids, working in his family’s grocery store, Frankie grew up a natural leader. He excelled in academics and sports and as a result of his high school success, he was nominated to the US Naval Academy. He chose to attend UNM instead, completing a Bachelor’s of Science degree. After graduating college, Frankie became a business owner in T or C, NM where he ran a successful Kentucky Fried Chicken franchise. He used to joke that he was actually old enough to have met Colonel Sanders (whom he did meet). Seeking new challenges, Frankie went on to a second career using his biology and chemistry background as a professional staff member at the NM Scientific Laboratory. He later worked for the Belen Consolidated Schools where he made many friends. Upon retirement, Frankie lived a relatively simple life for our times. Affectionately known as “Uncle Frankie”, he enjoyed family functions and gatherings, watching the Cowboys and Lobos, quiet evenings for reading and spirituality, and being a good neighbor in his Rio Communities home. He was a long-distance runner for most of his life, he could cover 6 miles with a steady, easy gait. A devoted family member to his siblings and nieces and nephews—if you were grappling with a life transition or dilemma, he was a good listener, philosophical and supportive. Frankie was very loved. Frankie was preceded in death by his parents Frank and Dora Tabet and his brother Stephen Tabet, MD. He is survived by siblings Anna Chavez (Sammy), Janet Tabet-Romero (Frank), Adam Tabet, MD (Connie) and Estella Tabet (Nadia). Nieces and nephews Marianne Candelaria (Carl), Dora Ann Delgado, Joey Chavez (Catherine), Noah Tabet and Alissa Tabet. Great nieces and nephews Christopher Loera; Halie Ann, Leia Ann and Mark Delgado; Ryan, Ava and Jon Candelaria; and Cameron and ShirleyAnn Chavez. Although Frankie is no longer with us, we take comfort in knowing that he is at peace in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ and his legacy of faith and love will continue to live on in all who knew him.

Frank Paul Tabet

July 23, 1954 - April 21, 2026