Samuel Celestino Barela

Samuel Celestino Barela age 95, a resident of Placita, NM, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family on July 3, 2025.

He was preceded in death by his parents Ruben & Evangelina Barela; siblings Florida Scudder, Frutoso Barela and John Barela; and granddaughter Ruby Barela and grandson Conrad Ayon.

Samuel was in the United States Army from 1952 – 1954. Following, he went to work in Butte, Montana, then he decided to return to his hometown of Vadito, NM. This is where he met the love of his life, Senaida Gonzales and were married for 69 years. Upon marriage, they moved back to Butte, MT where Samuel worked at the Copper Mines. In 1960, they moved to Grants, NM where he worked 25 years for the Uranium Mines. Samuel and Seneida moved back to Placitas, NM in 1985, he was employed in Los Alamos until his retirement.

Samuel is survived by his wife Senaida G. Barela; daughter LouAnn Lopez (Alfonso) and son Ricky Barela (Debbie); pet companion Elvis; siblings Jimmy Barela (Jan), Manuelita Berry and Ruby Vasquez (Louis); sister in-law Eleanor Barela; grandchildren Melissa Lopez, Alfonso Sam Lopez (Amanda), Veronica Barela Ayon, Ruben Barela (Jennifer); great-granddaughters Celestina, Sienna, Marisa, Miliana, Diana, Marianna, Rikki, Ayzlynn, Amaya and Alicia; great-grandsons Alfonso M. Lopez IV and Ruben Jr; great-great granddaughter Estrella.

Samuel was always a kind, gentle, quiet, strong man with a big heart. In his younger years, he was a great fisherman, he loved chopping his yearly firewood and keeping his many vehicles spick and span. He always got compliments on how clean and beautiful he kept his yard. He will be deeply missed, but forever cherished in the hearts of those he touched.

Rosary will be recited on Wednesday, July 23, 2025 at 10:00am, followed by the Funeral Mass at 11:00am at San Antonio de Padua Catholic church in Penasco. 

The family of Samuel Celestino Barela has entrusted the care of their loved one to the caring staff of DeVargas Funeral Home of Taos. 866-657-4019 www.devargastaos.com