Bernie M. Ulibarri, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on September 11, 2026, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She was born on November 24, 1935, in Los Ojos, New Mexico. Her life was marked by devotion to her family, steadfast faith, and a deep commitment to serving others in her community.

Bernie was a very dedicated mother and caregiver who raised five children on her own with determination and strength. That same resolve shaped her personal journey as she earned her GED and learned to drive at the age of 35. She continued pursuing her education and went on to obtain her associate’s degree in Mental Health from Northern New Mexico College, an achievement that remained among her proudest accomplishments, alongside her children and family.

Her working life reflected a generous spirit and a desire to help wherever she was needed. Bernie had a bountiful career of service to others. She was a devoted caregiver for cousins and neighbors, worked as an assistant teacher at Chama Valley Schools, served as a cook for the Senior Center, and was secretary for the Water Association. She also worked for the HELP program, teaching literacy skills, and was a lifelong member of her local VFW, inspired by her daughter’s military service. Community life was especially important to her. She loved to cook for community events, ran the kitchen for community bingo gatherings, and prepared meals for funerals, always offering comfort through her time, effort, and food.

Bernie was known as kind, caring, selfless, and loving. She was the sort of person who fed people and welcomed them in when they needed help most. She was widely known and deeply loved by her community and by the many people whose lives she touched. She was also a busy and hardworking woman, rising early each morning to get ready for work, make the morning fire, and cook breakfast. Her son especially remembered her delicious beans and sweet rice, dishes that reflected both her skill in the kitchen and the warmth she brought to those around her.

She found joy in simple and meaningful pleasures. Bernie loved cooking and helping others, and she took special delight in flowers, especially her hollyhocks. She also loved to dance and enjoyed Northern New Mexican music, dancing at family gatherings, community events, and at the senior center. She helped raise her nieces, nephews, and grandchildren, extending her care well beyond her own household. She loved all the dogs she had throughout her life, especially her Dachshund, Chica.

Her faith remained central throughout her life. Bernie was Catholic, attended San Jose Church in Los Ojos, and faithfully prayed her rosary every night. San Jose Church was also the place where she married her husband, Juan C. Ulibarri, on June 8, 1962, beginning a marriage and family life that remained an important part of her story.

Bernie is survived by her daughters, Debra Ann Fortune (John); Rosemary Carrasco (Fabian); her sons, Patrick Ulibarri (Mary); Napoleon Ulibarri (Coco); and her stepdaughter, Trinie Maestas. She is also survived by her grandchildren Juan, Fabian Jr., Clarissa, Robert, David, Michael, and 8 great-grandchildren whom she loved dearly. Her love also embraced many beloved nieces and nephews whom she loved and helped raise, as well as many additional family members and cherished friends. The care she gave so freely created lasting bonds that will continue to be felt for generations.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Juan C. Ulibarri; her son, Thomas B. Martinez; her nephew, Jose Ramon Martinez; her brother, Isaac; and her sisters Ernestina, Rufina, Alice, and Virginia.

Services will be announced as soon as possible.

Serving as Pallbearer will be Juan Ulibarri.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Fabian Carrasco Jr., Clarissa Carrasco, and Kolin Gulley.

Bernie will be remembered for her strength, her generosity, her faith, and the loving way she cared for so many. Her life was one of service, perseverance, and deep affection for family and community, and her memory will remain a blessing to all who knew her.

The family of Mrs. Bernie M. Ulibarri have entrusted the caring professionals at Rivera Family Funeral Home of Espanola to support them. Our heartfelt condolences to all.