Barbara Ann Ortega

Barbara Ann Ortega entered eternal life on March 17, 2026, at the age of 74. She was born on January 21, 1952, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and was a proud lifelong resident of Barelas. She passed peacefully in Las Vegas, Nevada, held in love by her daughter at her side, as she would have wanted. Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord.

Barbara was preceded in death by her loving parents, Hilda and Frank Ortega; her beloved grandparents, Patrick and Jennie Kozlowski (Metzgar), who were a guiding presence in her life; and her siblings, whom she often spoke of and missed dearly, Michael L. Ortega and Julia Gurule—all of Albuquerque, New Mexico. Her life was especially shaped by the deep bond she shared with her grandmother Jennie, a connection like no other. There is comfort and peace in knowing that all those who preceded her are now reunited.

Barbara is lovingly survived by her devoted daughter, Sabrina Duran, and son-in-law, Michael Duran, of Las Vegas, Nevada; her brother, Frank Ortega, whom she was so proud of; her baby sister, as she always called her, Patricia Torres; and her dear sister-in-law, Dora Shores, of Albuquerque, New Mexico. She was also embraced by a large extended family of nieces, nephews, and cousins. As well as by Michael’s family, who welcomed her as their own (Duran, Sanchez, Morris, Tapia, and Romero families). Along with many lifelong cherished friends, who became like family to her and held a special place in her heart, her friendships were a source of love, joy, comfort, and connection throughout her life.

Barbara is caringly remembered by her dear friend over 50 years, Diane (Dolores) Garcia, who was like a sister to her. Their friendship was filled with laughter, shared memories, and steadfast support, carrying them through life’s joys and challenges. They stood side by side for many milestones—from the birth of Sabrina to life’s happiest celebrations and its deepest sorrows—always sharing love, comfort, and unwavering friendship.

In her later years, Barbara was deeply touched by the care, kindness, and unwavering support of Andrea Valdez and Ralph Perea. Their open hearts became like family to her.

She also shared a special bond with the dialysis staff, providers, nurses, and technicians at the Fresenius Dialysis clinics at Sunport in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Centennial in Las Vegas, Nevada, who all became like family to her – sharing in humor, talks about food or jewelry, work, life, and family. Over the past 11 years, these locations have become like a second home to her, and the compassionate care and friendship she received from the staff will always be remembered with deep appreciation. Along with them, countless nurses, CNAs, doctors, and medical support staff in Albuquerque, New Mexico and Las Vegas, Nevada, touched her life with exceptional kindness and dedication.

Additionally, Dr. Satyaki Banerjee (in Albuquerque) and his entire team provided unwavering care, offering a level of support to Barbara that was truly unparalleled.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to Nathan Adelson Hospice and their entire staff in Las Vegas, Nevada, at the Tenya location for the dignity, care, and compassion they showed to Barbara, Sabrina, and Michael throughout this journey.

Barbara was deeply loved by all who knew her. She had a warm, outgoing spirit, a wonderful sense of humor, and found joy in dancing, socializing, and sharing good food and conversation. A woman of deep Catholic faith, she was guided by devotion that brought her comfort and strength.

She was fiercely loyal—always offering support, encouragement, and kindness—and only ever hoped for that same loyalty in return. She never met a stranger; her warmth and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her. Barbara loved fashion, took pride in looking her best, and found joy in giving thoughtful gifts to others.

As a single mother, she poured her heart into raising her daughter, Sabrina, with unconditional love and steadfast devotion. She extended that same love to Sabrina’s husband, Michael, instilling in them the values of faith, humor, kindness, generosity, loyalty, and joy.

A dedicated and hardworking woman throughout every stage of her career, Barbara took pride in all she did. She was also a natural mentor, guiding and encouraging young professionals through her work with DECA and by offering a listening ear, a good laugh, wisdom, and support to her employees and younger coworkers, many of whom she impacted in lasting ways.

The family invites you to celebrate Barbara’s life and faith. A Rosary will be prayed in her honor on April 24, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., followed by a eulogy. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated immediately afterward at 10:00 a.m., both at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 309 Stover Avenue SW, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87102.

Interment will take place at a later time. A reception to share a meal in her honor—as she would have wanted—will follow, with details to be announced.

In honor of her vibrant life, we ask you to come and celebrate her in bright colors, as she would have loved, rejoicing in the joy she shared with all who knew her. May we give thanks for her soul, now freed from illness and earthly burdens, resting in the eternal love of God, radiant in His grace, and dancing with the angels in heavenly peace.

Please consider a donation in Barbara's name to the work they do at Nathan Adelson Hospice (Tenaya) in Las Vegas, Nevada: https://www.nah.org/our-foundation/make-a-donation/online-donations

OR to the New Mexico Kidney Foundation to support patients affected by renal disease: https://givebutter.com/nmkf.

Both are 501(c)(3) nonprofit charities.