Carmen Barraza-Sotelo

On Sunday, February 8, 2026, at the age of 81, our beloved Carmen Barraza Sotelo was called home to be with our Lord. While our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we find comfort in knowing she is now resting in eternal peace in the arms of Christ.

Carmen was born on November 2, 1944, in Delicias, Chihuahua, to Raul and Candelaria Zepeda. From a young age, she carried within her a joyful spirit and a loving heart that would go on to bless everyone who knew her. She was a devoted wife of 53 years to her beloved husband, Jesus Sotelo, and a proud and loving mother to her five children: Alicia Barraza-House (Seymour), Margie Vasquez, Michelle Sotelo, Valerie Salas (Ernie), and Danny Sotelo (Nancy).

Her greatest joy in life was her family. She was a treasured grandmother to Melanie (Jaime), Marrisa (Aaron), Shane, Monica (Fabian), Ezra, Abby, Alyiah, Prentis III, Emmabella, Arabella, Avery, and Maxevan, and a proud great-grandmother to Urijah, Sebastian, Caesar, Elliana, Milla, and Aria. Each of them held a special place in her heart, and she never missed an opportunity to show her love, encouragement, and pride.

Carmen cherished life’s simple and beautiful moments—cooking meals filled with love, dancing with joy, gathering with family and friends, attending Mass, and especially vacationing at the beach surrounded by those she loved most. A lifelong member of Our Lady of Sorrows, her Catholic faith was the foundation of her life. She trusted deeply in God, found strength in prayer, and lived as an example of kindness, generosity, and grace.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Raul and Candelaria Zepeda. She is also survived by her siblings, Manuel, Ramon, Mary, and Rosalinda.

Carmen lived vibrantly and loved wholeheartedly until her very last days. To know her was to feel welcomed, supported, and deeply loved. She was truly an angel on earth, and though we grieve her absence, we know Heaven has gained a beautiful soul.

Mom, Grandma, Great-Grandma—until we meet again, please watch over us. We will carry your love in our hearts every day of our lives. You will be missed beyond words, and your light will continue to shine through all of us. Rest in peace, Mom.

Visitation will be held at Hillcrest Funeral Home, located at 1060 North Carolina Dr., El Paso, Texas, 79915, on February 16, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm. A Rosary will also take place at the same venue on February 16, 2026, at 7:00 pm.

The Funeral Mass will be conducted at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, situated at 7712 Rosedale St, El Paso, Texas, 79915, on February 17, 2026, from 9:00 am to 10:00 am.

Carmen Barraza-Sotelo will be remembered for her thoughtful and compassionate nature, leaving a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing her.