Jerry Vincent Barela

December 29, 1949 – February 21, 2026

Jerry Barela, 76, of Thornton, Colorado, passed away peacefully at home on February 21, 2026.

Jerry was born on December 29, 1949, in Trinidad, Colorado, to Lucas Joe Barela and Genevieve Barela. He spent his early years in the coal mining town of Sopris (also known as Jerryville), nestled in the foothills of southern Colorado's Las Animas County — a tight-knit community shaped by hard work and deep family bonds. He attended Lincoln School through the fifth grade before his family relocated to Denver, where he went on to attend Columbian Elementary School, Skinner Junior High School, and graduated from North High School.

At just seventeen, Jerry answered his country's call. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1967 and proudly served in Vietnam during one of the most challenging chapters in American history. His service and sacrifice were a source of lifelong pride, and the bonds he forged with his fellow veterans endured for the rest of his life.

After returning home, Jerry built a career as a truck driver, spending most of his years hauling freight across the roads of his beloved Colorado — a state he never wanted to leave. He married Sandra Jayne, and together they had two daughters, Keisa and Nakia. He later married Peggy Taylor, and they welcomed a daughter, Tara. He also married Maralyn Gylling.

Jerry was a man who collected people the way others collect things. His "family" extended far beyond bloodlines — Vietnam buddies, high school classmates, coworkers, and neighbors all found a permanent place in his generous heart. If Jerry knew you, you were family.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Lucas Joe and Genevieve Barela; his wife, Peggy; nephews Duane Barela, Lucas Wiggs, and Raymond Garcia.

He is survived by his three daughters: Keisa Barela, Nakia (Paul) Glenn, and Tara (Nathan) Harris; four grandchildren: Tenisha Barela, Andrew Glenn, and Rylan and Romyn Harris; three brothers: Raymond Barela, Charles (Beverly) Barela, and Dennis Barela; four sisters: Marcella (Paul) Wiggs, Shelby (Rick) Stookey, Valerie Barela, and Virginia (Frank) Sanchez; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family, and the countless friends who were lucky enough to call him theirs.

Rest easy, soldier. You're home now. 🇺🇸