Nella Columba (Del Angel) Barajas
Obituary
Our dear mother, Nella Columba Barajas passed away peacefully in her own home November 2, 2023 at the age of 91. A mother of 5 boys, she was preceded in death by her eldest son Henry Guy Diaz and brothers Alejo Del Angel, Chel Del Angel, Filimon Del Angel, and Gorgonio Del Angel. She is survived by her sons Andy Diaz, Fred Diaz, Joe Barajas, Rudy Barajas, daughter in laws Rosie Diaz, Eileen Diaz, Lisa Barajas, and numerous grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. She is also survived by her brother Norberto Del Angel who paid regular visits in her final years, as well as siblings Nalo Del Angel, Kiyi Del Angel, and Rosa Del Angel.
Nella immigrated to the US as a teenager, first living in Brownsville, Texas then settling in Healdsburg, California in the early 1950s.
In her early years Nella worked as a live-in nanny for the Daniels family, of which she had many fond memories. She later worked as a waitress, teacher's aid, and production bottling for a winery.
Nella was very active in the migrant community and participated in Cesar Chavez's historic march to the state capitol. Over the years Nella helped many migrants secure housing, food, and employment. Many whom Nella had helped came back in later years to express their gratitude for her help in getting a foothold in this country.
Mom had a passion for gardening and flowers. The front yard of her home was always lined with flowers of many different varieties that she was quite proud of.
She was also proud of her family and lined the walls with numerous photos, especially the children.
Her sparkling smile will be dearly missed by all of us, and she will be in our hearts forever.
A viewing will take place 3-7pm at the Windsor Healdsburg Mortuary and Crematory, 9660 Old Redwood Hwy. Windsor, CA on Thursday November 9, 2023
Published in Healdsburg Tribune · November 6, 2023