Jeanne Claire Nalda

Jeanne Claire Nalda was born in Urepel, France on October 17, 1923. She grew up on her family farm in the beautiful Pyrenees Mountains with her parents, five sisters and her brother. In her youth she experienced the hardships of the German occupation of her country and home during World War II. During the war, Jeanne taught French to Spanish children in Bilbao, Spain. She often had to cross the French-Spanish border, which was a danger- filled journey. Notably, on one of these journeys, she used her knowledge and courage to help a Jewish woman escape to the haven of neutral Spain.

In 1951, Jeanne came to the United States to marry Jean Baptiste Nalda, who was her childhood neighbor in France. For the next 35 years, Jeanne and Jean Baptiste ran a large sheep and cattle ranch in an isolated corner of Lincoln County in New Mexico. Her life on the ranch was a stark contrast to the beautiful mountain meadows of her home in the Pyrenees. Jeanne and Jean Baptiste also raised two daughters, who will be eternally grateful for the wonderful childhood that their parents worked so hard to provide.

Jeanne was an extraordinarily great mother. She loved her children unconditionally. Jeanne was encouraging, patient and completely supportive of all the endeavors her daughters attempted as they grew up. She was unquestionably in charge and set an example of a life well-lived. Jeanne instilled a sense of dignity, humility, sincerity and responsibility for being kind to others. Jeanne always emphasized the true value of family. She allowed her children to grow and learn from their mistakes, to work hard and to never give up on dreams. She always had great stories that allowed her children to learn from her experiences and her beloved childhood in France.

Jeanne was a strong, courageous and intelligent woman who loved the challenge of learning new things. She loved to create projects, work in the garden, paint and to read about history and current events. She also loved animals.

Jeanne was deeply spiritual and cared about others. If she heard of someone in need, Jeanne did all she could to help. Jeanne was humble, practical and very respectful. She would listen and would provide counsel when needed. Jeanne spent many hours of her life each day remembering those around her in prayer. To those who knew her well, Jeanne was a true light in the darkest of times. She was deeply loved by her family and will be tremendously missed every day.

Jeanne was preceded in death by her husband, Jean Baptiste. She is survived by her by her two daughters, Rosemarie Nalda Hennigan and husband, Robert, Janet Nalda-Lyons and husband, Ray; her sister, Anna Inda, and her many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Rosary will be held Saturday, April 10, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. followed by Mass at 10:15 a.m., St. Jude Thaddeus Catholic Church, 5712 Paradise Blvd NW in Albuquerque.