With broken hearts our family announces the passing of our beautiful family matriarch Virginia Barela, a faithful servant of God, who entered eternal life on September 16, 2025, at the age of 81. She passed away peacefully at her home in Alamogordo, New Mexico. Born on April 24, 1944, in San Jose, California, she was the cherished daughter of Sunamita and Roberto Madrid.

Virginia dedicated many years of her life to Las Cruces Public Schools, serving as a lead custodian. Her work ethic, pride, and quiet strength left a lasting impression on the students, staff, and community she served so diligently. Her deep and abiding devotion to God was the cornerstone of her life, a source of comfort and strength throughout every season.

Virginia is survived by her loving children: son Reuben Barela Jr.; daughters Antonia Barela, Rose Barela, and Angela Burton (Shane); grandchildren Danny, Nichole, Daniella, Adonnica, Davina, Bianca, Abi, Daniel Jr., RJ, Saizhe, Shane, Jacob and Sammy; as well as great grandchildren Roman, Messiah, Harley, Levi and Kai. Her extended family includes numerous nephews, nieces and cousins. Her spirit lives on in them and in the values she instilled—kindness, resilience, and devotion.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years Reuben Barela; her son Joe Daniel Barela; her parents; brothers Victor Madrid, Bobby Madrid, Daniel Madrid; and sister Perla Branson. Though gone, their memories remained close to her heart throughout her life, woven into the stories she shared and the love she carried.

Virginia will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her quiet strength, and the resounding love she gave so freely. She leaves behind a legacy of grace, humility, and devotion. May she rest in eternal peace.

Visitation will be held on Monday, September 29, 2025, from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. at Baca's Funeral Chapel, 300 E. Boutz Road. A Funeral Service will follow on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at 10:00 A.M., also at Baca's Funeral Chapel. Interment and Rite of Committal will conclude at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens, 5140 W. Picacho Avenue. A Celebration of Life will follow at VFW, 2001 N. Mesquite St., Las Cruces, NM where family and friends are invited to share memories and honor Virginia's life with joy and laughter. Like Virginia used to say "Enjoy life today because yesterday is gone and tomorrow isn't promised."

Serving as casket bearers are Reuben Barela Jr., Shane Burton, Ronnie Gillum, Shane Burton Jr., RJ Barela and Daniel Dorado. Honorary bearers include Joe Burton, Matt Duff, Mike Davis, Steven Armstrong, and Jacob Jimenez.

Service arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Baca's Funeral Chapels of Las Cruces and Sunset Crematory, 527-2222. Your exclusive provider for "Veterans and Family Memorial Care." For online condolences logon to www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com