Judith Roberta Baca

Beloved mother and grandmother, Judith R. Baca, born on August 19, 1930, in Chicago, Illinois, gracefully departed this life on February 28, 2026, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Judy lived a life of joy, wonder, and optimism. She was dedicated to her loving family, her many friends, and her adored pets. Her career spanned decades as an administrative assistant at Sandia National Laboratories, Albuquerque Public Schools, and the Civil Engineering Department, University of New Mexico, where her hard work, expertise and dedication earned her the respect of her colleagues and many awards, to include the prestigious 1992 Outstanding UNM Administrative Staff Award.

Judith was a "cool mom" with a quick smile, a silly joke and a bawdy sense of humor. She is survived by her three beloved sons—Wes Baca (Wendy Baca), Jon Baca (Terri Porter), and Kurt Baca (Allison Anderson)—who carry her spirit forward. Her love for her grandchildren Brett, Kristen, Leslie, Micaela, Ian, Wesley, Amelia, Alexander, Andrew, and Christine was profound. Her legacy continues as her joy, laughter and love echo in the hearts of her family. She will be deeply missed.

A lover of animals, nature and the arts, Judith found joy in simple pleasures - a cup of tea, good music, drawing, traveling, adopting feral cats, preparing a meal for family and friends, and sharing her gifts with her grandchildren. She was exceedingly proud of her sons and her grandchildren and each moment shared was a brushstroke on the canvas of their lives, which left a lasting impact.

Judith was preceded in death by her children's father, Edmund G. Baca, and her many beloved pets. 

Judith requested cremation with private family celebration. May her spirit find eternal peace as reward for a life beautifully lived.