Carmen was born on September 22, 1941 in El Paso, Texas to Enrique & Jennie Diaz. And later married Manuel A. Baca, they were married for 42 years.
Carmen was dedicated to her family. The family home was more than just a house on the block. It became a home of cherished memories for her family and friends throughout the years.
Her children and grandchildren had endless summers at the family home. Affectionally referred to as “Camp Carmen”. She was known for having many celebrations over her lifetime. Carmen was very strong willed and never gave up on any endeavor.
Carmen was a lifelong member of St Ann’s Catholic church, also serving as the Queen in 1958.
Carmen was known by many in the community. One of her passions in life was being of service to others. She volunteered at many organizations throughout her life- Deming Public Schools, Deming Senior Center, St. Ann’s Catholic Church, Deming’s Shop with a Cop - and many others. She was always ready to lend a helping hand.
She dedicated over 20 years of service to Deming Public Schools beginning her career at Lewis Flats as a volunteer and retiring as the Migrant Liaison, where she was a friend to many. She was a true believer that anyone could be successful in life through hard work and perseverance.
She will be greatly missed by all those that have been blessed to have known her.
Carmen is survived by her four children; Chris Baca (Deming, NM), Teresa Thurston (El Paso, TX), Dolores Jackson (Deming, NM), Manny (Rhonda) Baca, (Las Cruces, NM)
Nine Grandchildren; Christopher Baca, Stephen (Lisa) Thurston, Leezondra Baca, Manny Joe (Briana) Baca, CJ (Giovanna) Jackson, John (Vanessa) Thurston, Shai Ann (Isaiah) Baca, Brant Jackson, and Brianna (James) Jackson.
Twelve Great-Grandchildren- Her pride and joy! ; Michael, Bentley, Serenity, Bayne, Izabella, Micah, Jeremiah, Olivia, Evie, Matthew, Aubrielle, & Andrew John. She was truly thankful for her perfect dozen as she would call them.
As well as numerous Nieces and Nephews and cousins- that were such an important part of her life.
Carmen was a woman of tremendous faith. She knew that upon arrival to the gates of heaven she would be reunited with those that have proceeded her in death; her husband Manuel(Baby Bear), her Father, Enrique Diaz, Her Mother, Jennie Diaz Badley, Brothers Adolfo “Baby Dee” Diaz and Lonnie (Pauline) Diaz, and numerous beloved aunts, uncles & cousins.
We want to extend our deepest gratitude for the loving care provided to our mother/Grandmother, by The Aristocrat Assisted Living staff and caregivers. She made many friends at Aristocrats.
A special Thank you to Mesilla Valley Hospice for their care and support during this difficult time.
Visitation will begin at 9:00 am in the morning on Friday, March 15, 2024 at Terrazas Funeral Chapel in Deming. The Holy Rosary will begin at 10:00 with Lucy Villegas officiating. A funeral mass will be celebrated for Carmen immediately thereafter at 11:00 am at St. Ann Catholic Church.
The Rite of Committal will be at Mountain View Cemetery at 10:00 AM on Saturday, March 16, 2024.
Serving as pallbearers will be John Thurston, Brant Jackson, CJ Jackson, Arnold Diaz, Benny Jasso, & Jimmy Lessau Honorary pallbearers will be Bentley Moreno, Stephen Thurston, Manny Joe Baca, Christopher Baca, Russell Diaz, Johnny Villegas, Chris Baca, & Manny Baca.
I will miss you. Your Lou.
Family has requested to share the service on Facebook Live. Please go to https://www.facebook.com/terrazasfuneralchapels to view live feed at the time of scheduled service only.
Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels.