Bernadette Baca Sanchez, 75, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2026 surrounded by her loving family. She was born on June 26, 1950, in Corona, New Mexico, to Raquel and Julian Baca. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and educator, Bernadette lived a life deeply rooted in faith, family, and community.

Bernadette had a passion for educating and was a life long learner; dedicating many years to serving southern New Mexico as a bilingual teacher and mentor. She received her Bachelors Degree in Education in 1992 and returned to earn her Masters Degree in 2003, both with honors from New Mexico State University. In addition, she was the president and co-founder for the Bilingual Initiative Group (BIG), an organization committed to furthering bilingual-multicultural education for all students in the Las Cruces Public Schools. Her unwavering commitment, care, and compassion in the classroom touched countless lives and her positive impact can still be felt in the community today.

She found joy in traveling to new places, had an immense appreciation for the arts, and loved testing out new recipes. Her altruistic nature could be felt through every meal made, every dessert created, and through the thoughtful gifts and stories shared with her loved ones. Above all, her greatest joy came from her family, who were truly the light of her life.

Bernadette is survived by her beloved husband of 57 years, Ernest J. Sanchez; her eldest daughter, Arlene Peña (Eddie), her son, Ernest Sanchez Jr. (Cherie), youngest daughter, Stephanie Sanchez (Peter Morgan); and her sisters Viola Marquez and Rita Chavez.

She leaves behind 3 cherished grandchildren, Jenna Ascarate (Vincent Gomez), Solomon Sanchez (Lynae), and Cali Sanchez; seven step-grandchildren, three step-great grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, cousins, and Moki, the family dog.

Bernadette was preceded in death by her parents Raquel and Julian Baca, brothers Evaristo Baca, David Baca, Mike Baca, Albert Baca, and sister Prestina Archuleta.

A prayer vigil will be held on June 29th at Baca's Funeral Chapel, 300 E. Boutz Road. Recitation of the Rosary will begin at 6:00 p.m. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:00am on June 30th at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, 1240 S. Espina Street. Inurnment and the Rite of Committal will follow at the IHM Columbarium.

Service arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Baca's Funeral Chapels of Las Cruces and Sunset Crematory, 575-527-2222. For online condolences logon to www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com