Eloisa Janette Garcia (Baca), 70, of Moriarty, NM, was surrounded by her children and grandchildren when she went home to be with the Lord on August 29, 2026. Born on March 21, 1956 in Albuquerque, NM to Eloy and Jane Baca of Belen, NM.

A devoted woman of faith, Eloisa lived her life as a true servant of God. She found her joy in prayer, her strength in scripture, and her peace in Christ. She was a fearless warrior who overcame immense hardship with grace and resilience—a fighter until the very end.

Eloisa was a history-making trailblazer who paved the way for countless women behind her. As the first female fire chief in the Village of Tijeras, she was instrumental in helping incorporate the village, securing critical funding for the new city hall and fire department, and fighting for firefighter retirement benefits. Featured in a PNM documentary and in New Mexico Magazine on female fire chiefs, she also became the first woman to run for mayor in Tijeras, laying the groundwork for the woman who would later hold the office. She left this world draped in the American flag—a fitting tribute to a life dedicated to public service and community.

While she wore many hats—Fire Chief, city council member, softball player, and skilled crocheter—her favorite and proudest titles were Mama, and Abuela. She was truly ONE OF ONE. Those who knew Eloisa loved her for being hysterically funny, fiercely thoughtful, unapologetically blunt, and wonderfully filter-free. She was an absolute riot, and her love for her children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends was unconditional and boundless. Her greatest legacy was teaching her children and grandchildren to live for, through, and in service of the Lord.

Eloisa is preceded in death by her parents, Eloy and Jane Baca, and her siblings, Eloy Baca, Donna Baca, JoAnna Apodaca, and Catherine Clawson.

Eloisa is survived by her four children: Jovan Garcia (Leanna), Veronica McDermott (Brad), Patricia Ramirez (Armando), and Matthew Garcia, as well as her beloved grandchildren Dominic Garcia, Michael Garcia, Janis Garcia, Natalie McDermott, Bradley McDermott, Grace Ramirez, Adrian Ramirez, Isaiah Garcia, Addison McDermott, Maddison Garcia, Noah Garcia, and her great grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held in the Spring. The family invites all who loved her and shared in her journey to join in celebrating the remarkable life she lived. More details to come.

“ I will never leave you nor forsake you” Hebrews 3:15 and Deuteronomy 31:8. Song: Todo Esta Bien by Danny Goke