Dr. Felice Mary Archuleta

With heavy hearts, the Archuleta Family announces the passing of their beloved wife and mother, Dr. Felice Mary Archuleta. Felice was born on February 11, 1948, in Rochester, NY, and died peacefully at her home in Midlothian, VA, on April 22, 2023, after a courageous battle with severe, chronic rheumatoid arthritis, COVID-19, shingles, and delirium.

Felice is survived by her devoted and loving husband, Dr. Bob Archuleta of Midlothian, VA, her son and daughter-in-law, Henry and Elena Archuleta of Salem, SC, and her adored Jack Russell Terrier, Ziti. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Dr. Christine Archuleta of Midlothian, VA, her parents, Henry and Palma Cerquone of Rochester, NY, and her in-laws Ben and Frances Archuleta, of Green River, WY. In her remarkable life, Felice was loved by many family members in Arizona, California, Colorado, New York, and Texas, as well as friends, colleagues, and adoring patients.

Felice graduated from Manhattanville College in Purchase, NY, and The University of Colorado School of Medicine in Denver. Felice completed her medical residency in internal medicine at The Medical College of Virginia in Richmond and went on to practice medicine for 25 years as an accomplished internist.

During her medical career, Felice was a caring wife, ever-present mother, avid tennis player, and passionate supporter of youth sports. Felice also co-chaired the Noah’s Children Art Project for 20 years. Forced to retire early from her medical career due to severe, chronic rheumatoid arthritis, Felice used this as an opportunity to live life even fuller. Felice reinvented herself as the family travel agent, event planner, accomplished pianist, comedic puppeteer, skilled needlepoint artist, talented photographer, creative writer, and superb chef. Spearheading countless themed birthday and sports team parties, Christmas scavenger hunts, and family Scrabble nights, Felice was the family lifeblood. Possessing incredible wit and humor, Felice loved telling stories and making people laugh. Through Felice’s genuine joy, care, and love for others, she had a special gift of making everyone feel like her family.

Interment will be private for the immediate family. The family is grateful for the medical providers, home caregivers, family, and friends who have provided such loving support to Felice over her life.

For those interested in honoring Felice’s memory and life, memorial contributions may be made to Noah’s Children pediatric hospice (noahschildren.org) or the MCV Foundation in support of the Christine Archuleta Legacy Fund, noting on the check’s memo line the gift is in memory of Felice Archuleta and mailed to VCU Gifts & Records, Box 843042, Richmond, VA 23284-3042. Online gifts may be made by visiting support.vcu.edu/give/medicine.