Norma Anaya Barron

Norma Anaya Barron entered into eternal rest on May 11, 2024, while in the presence of her loving family. She was set free from a short battle with cancer at the age of 65. Norma was born and raised in Modesto, California. She attended Modesto High School and then earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science from California State University Stanislaus. In 1982, she married her “corazon” Eduardo Barron, and they started a family a few years after. Friends repeatedly use these words to describe Norma: Amazing. A beautiful, loving soul. Kind, caring, and warm. Full of joy and a bright smile. A tremendous role model and mentor. Full of laughter. A prayer warrior. Generous, graceful, loyal friend, and a great dancer! Norma was intentional about serving and loving others while walking in her faith. She compassionately helped the underserved and the vulnerable in her community. She was active with the Covenant of Love of the Sisters of the Cross of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and an Arise group that prepared and served meals at the Salvation Army. Norma also delivered communion to the sick and homebound, and taught Catechism. In addition, she was on a crew that prepared meals for Catholic church celebrations. Norma was a champion for equal rights to the point of standing face to face with the Klu Klux Klan. While at the same time, a proponent for farm workers’ rights. She also advocated for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Her selflessness, volunteerism, and advocacy earned her an Outstanding Women Award, a distinction presented annually by the Stanislaus County Commission for Women. Norma’s career life was always about serving others. Early in her career, she worked for Casa, then Haven Women’s Center and later served on their board of directors. Norma also worked for the California State Legislature and specialized in constituent services. Her career also included assisting injured employees navigating workers compensation. Leading up to her retirement, Norma worked in the Human Resources Department at Seneca Foods. Norma truly enjoyed her activities with the Modesto Garden Club. Her enthusiasm for floriculture is evident in her lush backyard. Norma is survived by her romantic and supportive husband, Eduardo, their two beautiful children, Marcia Barron (Maurice Smith); Evan Barron (Michaela Coronado) and grandson Ezykiiel Coronado; sister Christina Anaya; sister Martha Anaya; and extended family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents Esther and Pablo Arreola. Visitation will take place on Wednesday, May 29, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., with recitation of the rosary following at 6:00 p.m. at Turlock Funeral Home 425 N. Soderquist Rd, Turlock. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, May 30 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, 709 “J” Street, Modesto. A coffee and pastry reception will follow the mass at the church fellowship hall. The interment will be held at 1:30 p.m. at Turlock Memorial Park, 575 N. Soderquist Rd., Turlock. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be mailed to the Sisters of the Cross of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. 1320 Maze Blvd., Modesto, CA 95351.

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Norma Anaya Barron

November 20, 1958 - May 11, 2024