Minnie Barrera Obituary Minnie Barrera, born on November 9, 1936, in Ramizre, Texas, to Angel and Anita Aguilar, passed away peacefully on September 3, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. One of eight siblings, Minnie spent her early years working on her aunts ranch. In 1954, Minnie met the love of her life, Benigno Barrera, and they married in December 1957 in Corpus Christi, Texas. During the early years of their marriage, they worked in the fields of Texas, forging a strong work ethic that they passed on to their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Together, they raised five children: Juan Barrera (Janel), Victor Barrera (Cathy), Rita Sandy (Loren), Mary Van Wyck (Lon), and Benjamin, each of whom they cherished deeply. Their love and dedication to their family were unwavering and reflected the strength of their bond. In 1963, the Barrera family settled in Nampa, where Benny and Minnie ran a successful janitorial and housekeeping business while working full-time jobs. Despite having no formal education and speaking only Spanish, Minnie taught herself and her children English by watching television, especially soap operas. Through hard work, determination, and faith, they built a comfortable life and formed lifelong friendships in the community. When her first granddaughter, Amber Acree (Zack), was born, Minnie turned her attention to caring for her grandchildren, a role she embraced with love and devotion. She adored all her grandchildren: Ryan Sandy (Poonam), Tanner Van Wyck (John Brophy), Alyssa Horst (David), Bailey Luna (Ethen Ashcraft), Daniel Barrera, Ashlee Stenkamp (TJ), Daniel Luna-Hiner (Lukas Hiner-Luna). She helped nurture them into thoughtful, compassionate individuals, pouring her love into their lives and shaping them through her guidance and care. Minnie was more than a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmothershe was incredibly creative. Her unmistakable passion for design, style, and art permeated her life. Minnie loved decorating her home for every holiday, going all out to make her house a showcase for her familys gatherings. She had an impeccable fashion sense, never leaving the house without looking her best, and she passed that sense of style on to her legacy. One of the hobbies she enjoyed was repainting and restoring items, always making things beautiful again. Her garden, especially her flowers, was a source of pride and admiration. At the core of Minnies life was her unwavering faith. She and her family were dedicated members of St. Pauls Catholic Church, attending services every Sunday. Her faith brought her strength and comfort throughout her life. After Mass, she would return home, change into her apron, and prepare large brunches for her family. Laughter and joy could be heard outside of the home. Eventually, she would pass down her famous recipes to her grandchildren. Her kitchen was the heart of her family. In her later years, Minnie found joy in traveling and spending time with her growing family, including her great-grandchildren: Carter and Kooper Acree, Loren, Landen, and Lakien Stenkamp, Alex Horst, Zara Sandy, Artemis Luna, and the anticipation of another great-grandchild. During weekly visits with her great-grandkids, Minnie always ensured she had a small gift or treat for them. She cherished each of them, pouring her boundless love and care into their lives. Even as her health declined, Minnies strength never wavered. Despite her eyesight and hearing challenges, she remained present, always attentive to those around her. Her resilience allowed her to stay with her family for many years, leaving a legacy of strength, kindness, and love. Though Minnie has left this world, her compassion, and enduring love will continue to live on through her family and the countless lives she touched. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Services Visitation Thursday September 12, 2024 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM Nampa Funeral Home 415 12th Ave. So. Nampa, Idaho 83651 Recitation of the Rosary Thursday September 12, 2024 6:00 PM Nampa Funeral Home 415 12th Ave. So. Nampa, Idaho 83651 Funeral Mass Friday September 13, 2024 2:00 PM St. Pauls Catholic Church 510 W. Roosevelt Ave. Nampa, Idaho 83686