Barbara Ann Mendez

Barbara Ann Mendez (Barb) peacefully passed away at the age of 60 in Tome, New Mexico. She was surrounded by her loving family. 
 

Barbara was preceded in death by her mother and father, Mary and Jacob Gonzales and her granddaughter Ayla Mendez. She is survived by her husband, Miguel Mendez and their children, Justin L. Garcia, Bryan M. Garcia, Matthew J. Garcia, Michael A. Mendez and wife Heather, Nicholas A. Mendez and wife Amanda, Isaac A. Mendez, and Macayla A. Mendez.

She was survived by her siblings Benjamin F. Gonzales and wife Darlene, Patricia Fisher husband Herman, and Mark A. Gonzales and wife Melissa; and her grandchildren Madilyn Garcia, Luke Mendez, and Elena Mendez.

Some people walk alongside us on this Earth for a short time and through their profound love we are reminded just how important angels watching over us are. 

Barbara was born to Mary and Jacob Gonzales on November 5, 1959 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Her childhood was spent with memories of picking apricots and berries with family and friends in the north valley. She attended Taft Middle School and graduated from Valley High School. She started college and entered the workforce with Elastimold. 

Throughout her career she held positions with the Public Service Company of New Mexico, Manuel Lujan Agency and the Veteran’s Administration before finally finding her work-home with Irby Utilities. Through Irby she found and embraced a family away from home who showed her unconditional love, honor, and respect throughout these challenging times. 

Between 1982 and 1991 Barbara achieved her dream of becoming a mom and gave birth to her three sons who would become her greatest pride and joy. Barbara passionately embraced her role in motherhood and loved her sons unconditionally with all her being. A selfless and compassionate mom, she ensured she did everything in her power to give them the best life possible. 

In 2009 Barbara’s heart was filled with joy when she welcomed her first granddaughter into the world. She truly cherished every loving moment she shared with her beautiful hita. In 2016 and 2019 Barbara was once again blessed by the grace of God when she and Miguel were honored with the arrival of two more grandchildren. 

July 19, 2019, they were once again blessed with another beautiful granddaughter, Ayla Grace Mendez, who was called upon by our Lord.  The loss of beautiful Ayla Grace was hard for Barb, Miguel and the entire family.

Barbara loved deeply and endeared her family above all else. She treasured time spent with her beloved brothers and never missed a moment to laugh, creating stories and memories to last a lifetime. 

Barbara was the rock and foundation that always brought her family together. No matter the occasion she spent countless hours preparing, decorating, and helping others make the most of those precious moments. Barbara had a unique gift for interior design and holiday preparations which never missed a detail, creating a picture perfect atmosphere.The elegant grace and touch of her design filled hands staged and decorated countless homes for her friends, family and builders alike. 

Barbara carried the same elegant grace to enjoy her active lifestyle. She loved to travel and spend her time on hiking trails, bike trails, tennis courts, and reverend walks up Tome Hill.

In 2015, Barbara met the love of her life, Miguel Mendez.  Brought together by a dear friend she met the man of her dreams who would bring out the very best of who she was.  Seeing Barb and Miguel together there was no doubt that cupid’s arrow hit it’s mark.  “Barbie Baby”, as Miguel would endearingly refer to her, never missed an opportunity to express how grateful she was to share this glorious love with her soulmate. Blending two families into one, brought both of their hearts joy and comfort. Barbara loved their now seven children and, as she was known to do, welcomed each and every one with open arms and unconditional love and happiness.

Barbara and Miguel built their dream home near the base of Tome Hill. Being a woman of strong faith, Barbara reveled in the deep rich history of Tome Hill and the profound meaning that mountain would have in her life.  There were many hours spent laughing and storytelling with friends and family on the back porch overlooking the beautiful views of the countryside. The love, faith and serene warmth was ever present as you walked through the 12 foot entry door.  It would be in her home, she worked so hard to build with her soulmate, where she would be surrounded by her loving family when she went to be with the Lord; St. Peter hurried her in, asking for her opinion on best to make Heaven a better place - an angel watching over us when we need one the most. 

Through the expanded love of her family and due to the loss of her granddaughter, Ayla Grace Mendez, Barbara’s wish was to have all donations be made to the Star Legacy Foundation at https://starlegacyfoundation.org/.

A Visitation will be held Tuesday, September 1, 2020 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. with a Rosary being recited at 7:00 p.m. at Daniels Family Funeral Services - Carlisle Chapel, 3113 Carlisle Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM.

 A Funeral Mass will be held Wednesday, September 2, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. at Queen of Heaven Catholic Church, 5311 Phoenix Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM. Interment will be held at a later date.

The family of Barbara Mendez (Barb) has entrusted the care of their loved one to the Daniels Family and Funeral Cremation at 3113 Carlisle Blvd. NE Albuquerque, NM 87110 at 505-884-1148.