Sylvanna Valeen (Nana) Barraza

Born on November 28, 1985, in Hobbs, New Mexico, Sylvanna Valeen Barraza brought her vibrant spirit to the world. She graduated from Eunice High School and embarked on a journey filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.

 As a wife to Gary Barraza, Sylvanna shared an unbreakable friendship with him, Gary and Sylvanna were married June 30, 2010, and had spent a total of 19 years together. Sylvanna possessed a fierce love for her daughter Cynthia, which drove her passion to support and encourage everything her daughter pursued. Their bond was truly special and served as an inspiration to all who witnessed it.

Beyond her role as a mother and wife, Sylvanna embraced the roles of daughter, sister, aunt, and friend with equal devotion. Her family members cherished the love she unconditionally poured into their lives. Her parents Richard Velasquez and Olga Rahe were blessed by her presence. 

Sylvanna was a remarkable individual whose presence brought joy and warmth to the lives she touched. With a career as a Sales Representative for All American Pumps, she showcased her dedication and professionalism in all aspects of her life.

Sylvanna's hobbies included being an avid reader who would immerse herself in books whenever possible. She also possessed an unwavering love for hockey, specifically the Bruins. She loved to tease her nephew about being a Stars fan. When it came to football season, she rallied behind the Green Bay Packers with unmatched enthusiasm.

Throughout her life journey, Sylvanna held numerous accomplishments close to her heart. More than anything else, she treasured being a devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister, and aunt. The love she shared with her family was immeasurable.

On February 11th, 2024, Sylvanna tragically passed away in Eunice, New Mexico. Her loss is deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing her. However, her vibrant spirit will forever shine brightly in the hearts of those she left behind.

Sylvanna leaves behind a legacy of love and strength for her surviving family and friends to carry forward. Her beloved husband Gary Barraza, cherished daughter Cynthia Barraza hold her memory dear. Richard Velasquez Sr. (Barbara), Olga Rahe (Mike) keep Sylvanna in their hearts as they navigate this profound loss. Sylvanna's siblings, Richard Velasquez Jr. (Gia), Sylvia Wood (Stewart), Erik Quiroz (Rosario), Katianna Hernandez (Fiancé - Yodel), Sienna Hernandez, and Jessica Quiroz mourn her passing with heavy hearts. Her extended family including nieces and nephews Jonah Wood, Jax Wood, Ava Jeter, Austyn Velasquez, Asher Valasquez, Valeria Barraza, Baby Mario Quezada, Adrian Barraza, Emery Rodriguez, Shon Quiroz, Jordan Quiroz, Boston Castillo alongside her goddaughter Olivia Grace Wooten hold cherished memories of their time together. In addition to her immediate family members are her bonus children Dean Heady and Alexis Heady along with their children Sean Heady, Maddi Heady, and Eli Heady. Spencer Roach also mourns the loss of Sylvanna along with numerous friends who were blessed to have known such an exceptional person.

Sylvanna was preceded in death by her grandparents Felipe and Virginia Valencia, Father-in-Law Guerrero Barraza, Brother-in-Law Manuel Barraza, Dario Velasquez, and Cynthia Short.

While we mourn the loss of Sylvanna Valeen Barraza, it is important to remember the beauty and love she brought into the world. Her legacy will forever remain etched in our hearts, inspiring us to live each day with kindness, compassion, and unwavering love. May her soul find eternal peace, and may her memory be a blessing to all who knew her.