Bernabe "Bernie" Melico Padilla

September 27, 1938 - March 23, 2023

Bernie Padilla was born on September 27, 1938, in Tome, New Mexico, to Vencente E. Padilla and Lucille Sanchez Padilla. He was raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where he spent his childhood summers working on his grandfather's farm in Tome. Bernie had a love for music and enjoyed playing the piano. He also had a passion for nature, animals, and birdwatching. Bernie was a devoted fan of the Dallas Cowboys and New York Yankees.

In 1957, Bernie enlisted in the Air Force and worked as an Air Traffic Controller. He transitioned to the New Mexico Air National Guard in 1961, serving until 1966. Bernie had a distinguished career at BNSF Railway, spanning 38 years, and retired out of the Barstow Yard in 2000.

Bernie was blessed to spend his retirement with the love of his life, his wife Shirley. Together, they enjoyed reading, birdwatching, taking day trips into the desert, and gardening. Bernie's passion for trains carried into his retirement, and he loved going on road trips in his truck to watch the trains go by.

Bernie is survived by his wife of 40 years, Shirley Mayfield Jarnagin Padilla, his son Wayne Jarnagin and wife Chris, son Jeff Jarnagin, and daughter Kelly Muehlbauer. He was preceded in death by his father Vencente Padilla, mother Lucille Sanchez Padilla, brothers Steve, Luis, and Edward, and sister Bernadette. Bernie is also survived by his brother Robert and sisters Margaret and Teresa. He had a special place in his heart for his nine grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren, all of whom he loved dearly.

A memorial service will be held to celebrate Bernie's life. Details about the service will be forthcoming.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.meadcares.com for the Padilla family.