Theresa M. Barela

Theresa M. Barela, affectionately known as “Nana” and “Gramita”, passed away peacefully at home on February 3, 2026, as per her wishes. Theresa was born on January 16, 1944, to José R. Gonzales and Emma Duran in Las Mesitas. She was united in marriage to her beloved husband, Robert A. Barela, on June 7th, 1964. They are happily reunited once again. Theresa was a devoted Catholic and actively participated in the Sacred Heart of Jesus Society and Lady of Fátima. She was known for her warm heart, sense of humor, and love for feeding others, whether through her delicious cooking or generous donations to fundraisers. She enjoyed hobbies such as cooking, sewing, quilting, camping, and spending cherished moments with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Theresa is survived by her son James Barela of the family home; daughters Brenda Ramirez of Alamosa, Bea Barela of Antonito, Roselie Schlaufman (Gabe Martinez) of Manassa, and Roberta Barela of Ortiz. Theresa lovingly raised her granddaughter and grandson Melissa Martinez (Sam Duran) of Colorado Springs and Adam Martinez, of Antonito she is also survived by her grandchildren Shawn Maez (April) of Manassa, Andrew García of Antonito, Kimberly Vialpando of Colorado Springs, Savannah (Dennis) Corona of Alamosa, Dylan Schlaufman (Harley Rendon) of Alamosa, Ashley García of Antonito, and Kristen Pacheco of Colorado Springs. Theresa’s legacy continues through her great-grandchildren Lexie and Laycee Maez, Jacob and Jaylissa Duran, Rayden, Ezekiel, Micaela, and Eunice Casillas, Elijah and Isabella Garcia, and her extra special great-granddaughter Ariana Magdelano, along with Xavier Silvas, Caydence Martínez and Aubrianna Lopez. She also shared a close bond with her godchildren Nick Barela, Timothy DeHerrera, Rick Garcia, and Orlando Salazar. She is survived by several siblings: Natividad Sanchez, of Antonito, Ida Rabago, and Elaine Gonzales of Antonito; Pauline (Gasper) Lopez of Bountiful; Wanda (Donney) Martinez of Manassa; Alex Gonzales of La Jara; Josie (Frank) Salazar of Colorado Springs; Jackie (Marvin) Martinez of San Antonio; Marbella (Alfred) Duran of Ortiz; and Francis Gonzales of Romeo. She is preceded in death by her loving husband Roberta A. Barela, daughter Lee Ann Barela-Garcia, son-in-law Andrew “Critter” Garcia, son-in-law Rafael Ramirez, parents Jose and Emma Gonzales, great grandson Nicolas Garcia, siblings; Ronnie Gonzales, Clara DuPont, Mary AnTheresa M. Barela, affectionately known as “Nana” and “Gramita”, passed away peacefully at home on February 3, 2026, as per her wishes. Theresa was born on January 16, 1944, to José R. Gonzales and Emma Duran in Las Mesitas. She was united in marriage to her beloved husband, Robert A. Barela, on June 7th, 1964. They are happily reunited Services will be held with a viewing and visitation on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, from 12 PM to 4 PM at Romero Valley Funeral Home Chapel in Antonito. A rosary will be recited at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Conejos at 6 PM on the same day, followed by a Mass of Resurrection on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at 10 AM at the same church. Interment will follow at La Jara Cemetery. To leave online condolences, please visit; romerofuneralhomes.com. The care of arrangements has been entrusted to Romero Valley Funeral Home of Alamosa.

Theresa M. Barela

January 16, 1944 - February 3, 2026