Carmen was born in National City on November 17, 1929 to Soledad and Francisco Barajas. She was one of eight children. She became the eldest daughter when her older sister Maclovia died at the age of seven. Growing up she helped her mother raise her brothers and sisters. This set the path for a life of taking care of and helping her family over the years. She loved her family and was always very protective of them. She grew to be a strong and fiercely independent woman. She was the original single parent raising three children on her own. She loved working and did so into her ’80’s. She had a strong work ethic which she passed on to her children. She taught her children right from wrong and instilled in them a sense of duty to help others less fortunate than themselves whenever possible. She was selfless and generous her entire life. Carmen was brutally honest and refreshingly direct. And while these traits may seem intimidating, these were the traits people loved about her and admired her for. People always knew their place and where they stood in Carmen’s life. She loved to laugh and have a good time. She loved music and dancing and reading and going to the movies - especially going to the movies. She traveled a bit. Spending time with her family at gatherings and celebrations were important to her. Carmen was preceded in death by her eldest son Rudy Gutierrez and his wife Gloria
She is survived by:
Her son Lorenzo Carvajal and his partners Gary Wolff and Ken Herman
Her daughter Anna Carvajal Dale and her husband Stanley
Her grandson Rudy Gutierrez and his wife Jessica
Her grandson Jordan Dale
Her grandson Loren Dale
Her great grandson Matthew Gutierrez
Her Brother Frank Barajas and his wife Minnie
Carmen lived life to the fullest and on her own terms. In the end she did it her way. She passed away quietly and peacefully in the home that her wonderful family had provided for her for over 30 years. She was the fiercest of angels and her wings touched many people. She will be greatly missed. Today is not a day of mourning. Today is a day to celebrate the life of this amazing woman.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been setup in Carmen B. Carvajal memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.The donations tab provides a direct link to the fund. Thank you for your kindness and generosity.
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